Illustration of visitors walking among giant light sculptures of a reindeer, a candy cane arch and snowflakes (Zoo Lights)

Zoo Lights

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Winnipeg's favorite holiday tradition returns, transforming the Assiniboine Park Zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland with over 1.75 million twinkling lights. Visitors can wander through sparkling displays, enjoy new attractions like the Zoo Lights Express train and an indoor light show, and capture festive memories with Santa. New for this year are interactive games, roaming performers, and more fire pits for a cozy experience.

Map It Details Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

$$

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Assiniboine Park

Featured Performers

  • DJ GeNie
  • Squid Squad
  • Starr Blazers
  • The Wrigley Brothers

Food & Drink

Food trucks and beverage vendors available on-site, including hot chocolate, craft beer, wine, s'mores, and full meals.

Parking

Limited parking is available at the Zoo front entrance. Consider carpooling, active transportation, or public transportation.

Accessibility

https://www.assiniboinepark.ca/accessibility

Going?

Location

Assiniboine Park Zoo · 2595 Roblin Boulevard, Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N7 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and couples

Vibe

Festive, magical, cozy

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (5/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (proceeds rain or shine, with indoor options)

Tips & Advice

  • Purchase tickets online in advance, as they are time and date specific and can sell out.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds, especially before the winter break.
  • Dress warmly in layers, as much of the event is outdoors, and utilize the indoor warm-up spots like the Aurora Lights gallery.
  • Take advantage of the special offer for a free ticket to the Zoo in the New Year when visiting during the winter break (December 20, 2025 - January 3, 2026).
  • Arrive early if you plan to park on-site, as parking is limited and carpooling or public transport is recommended.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Receive one FREE ticket to visit the Zoo in the New Year with visits between December 20, 2025 - January 3, 2026.
  • New Year's Eve and New Year's Day Bash with special entertainment and food.
  • Photos with Santa Claus available from November 21 - December 23.
  • Group ticket discounts available for groups of 25 or more.

Links & Contact

Run by Assiniboine Park Conservancy

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the operating hours for Zoo Lights?

Zoo Lights is open from November 21 to January 3. From December 1-21, it's open Wednesday-Sunday, 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm. From December 22-January 3, it's open Monday-Sunday, 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm, with extended hours for the New Year's Eve Bash.

Are tickets refundable or exchangeable?

Tickets are generally non-refundable unless the Zoo closes due to extreme weather. Tickets purchased from December 1, 2025, onwards may be exchanged for another date via the Ticket Exchange portal, subject to availability and a $10 fee. November 50% off tickets are not eligible for exchange.

Can I bring my pet to Zoo Lights?

No pets are allowed at Zoo Lights, with the exception of service animals.

What food and drink options are available?

A variety of food and beverage stations are available, including the Bison Snack Shack, Marquee Tent, Tundra Grill, Tundra Trail Shack, and Beavertails, offering everything from snacks and meals to hot chocolate, coffee, craft beer, and wine.

Is there parking available?

Limited parking is available at the Zoo's front entrance. Visitors are encouraged to consider carpooling, active transportation, or public transportation. Directions to an overflow parking lot are also provided.

Browse Christmas in Winnipeg

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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