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Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo

Name: Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo - Houston Zoo
Start: November 21, 2025
End: January 4, 2026
Location: Houston Zoo

Houston Zoo

Experience over 2 million twinkling lights transforming Houston Zoo into a magical winter wonderland with illuminated animal sculptures, immersive displays, and festive family fun.

Event Details

Dates

November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026

Location

Houston Zoo

6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030

Pricing

Timed entry tickets required. Pricing varies by date. Check Houston Zoo website for current rates.

Age Groups

Excellent for families and children - walking lights displays, immersive experiences, and holiday atmosphere.

Overview

Zoo Lights is Houston's most spectacular holiday light display, transforming the Houston Zoo into an enchanted wonderland of over 2 million twinkling lights. This beloved annual tradition features stunning illuminated animal sculptures, immersive light tunnels, festive music, and magical displays that delight visitors of all ages. As you walk through the zoo's pathways, you'll encounter glowing giraffes, sparkling elephants, and countless other light creations that bring the animal kingdom to life in a whole new way. The event combines the wonder of wildlife with the magic of the holidays, creating an unforgettable experience that has become a must-see Houston tradition.

What to Expect

2 Million+ Lights

Marvel at over 2 million individual lights creating breathtaking displays throughout the zoo, from towering light sculptures to twinkling pathways that guide you through the magical experience.

Illuminated Animal Sculptures

Encounter larger-than-life light sculptures of your favorite animals - giraffes, elephants, lions, and more - all glowing in vibrant colors that bring them to life in spectacular fashion.

Immersive Light Displays

Walk through enchanting light tunnels, under glowing archways, and past interactive displays that create photo-perfect moments and immersive holiday experiences.

Family-Friendly Activities

Enjoy festive music, holiday treats, photo opportunities, and special activities designed to create lasting memories for families and children of all ages.

Practical Information

Event Duration

Nov 21, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026 (evening hours)

Tickets

Timed entry required; pricing varies by date

Age Suitability

Excellent for families with children of all ages

Parking

Zoo parking lots; arrive early to avoid congestion

Helpful Tips

Dress in layers for evening visits - while Houston winters are mild, evenings can be cool, especially in December and January
Purchase timed entry tickets in advance online to guarantee admission and avoid sold-out dates
Arrive early to secure parking - the zoo parking lots fill quickly on popular nights, especially weekends and holidays
Consider visiting earlier in the season (late November/early December) before the New Year's rush for smaller crowds
Bring a camera or smartphone - the light displays create incredible photo opportunities throughout the zoo
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be strolling through the zoo for 1-2 hours
Check the weather forecast and bring umbrellas if rain is expected - the event continues in light rain
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours to fully experience all the light displays and take photos
Concessions are available - consider grabbing hot cocoa or holiday treats to enjoy while you explore

Historical Context

Zoo Lights began as a small holiday event and has grown into one of Houston's most beloved seasonal traditions, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The Houston Zoo, founded in 1922, has been a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape for over a century. Zoo Lights represents the zoo's commitment to creating magical experiences while supporting its conservation and education mission - proceeds from the event help fund the zoo's wildlife conservation programs and animal care initiatives, making every visit both entertaining and meaningful.