Wildlights 2026

One of Ohio's Favorite Holiday Traditions! Experience the magic of the holiday season in Central Ohio with millions of dazzling LED zoo lights, animated musical light shows, and festive activities at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! Admission to Wildlights is included with your regular Zoo admission or Columbus Zoo membership. To catch a glimpse of the animals before they retreat for the evening, be sure to arrive early and enjoy the Zoo lights afterward!Mark Your Calendars! Wildlights is scheduled for November 20, 2026 - January 3, 2027. We have a elephant-sized ton of fun planned for you this holiday season! Guests are encouraged to arrive before 4 p.m. to view some animals like the gorillas and orangutans, who like to go to sleep early. Other animals may be able to be seen outdoors (like reindeer and tigers!) , and more can be found in their indoor habitats, including:NOTE: To help us care for the animals, please avoid the use of flashlights or phone lights in animal habitats. These lights can interfere with their nighttime activities and the behaviors our teams monitor closely. Thank you for helping us support their wellbeing. Find animals, food, and cozy indoor spaces. Get in-park walking directions, too!Get all the info you need to know for a holly jolly experience at the Zoo. No worries, we have ways to convert your cash to a debit card and accept many other forms of payment, too. While you stroll through the Zoo lights, enjoy many food and beverage options, including:Plenty of holiday family fun awaits you at the Columbus Zoo!Meet a reindeer, take a VIP spin around the Zoo, and more!Support Columbus Zoo animals with a gift, and meet a moose named Strawberry!