ZooLights

Visitors walking down a pathway with illuminated jellyfish lanterns in front of them.

This holiday season, the Smithsonian's National Zoo is transforming into an enchanting winter wonderland with ZooLights!

Now in its 17th year, this annual holiday light spectacular welcomes visitors to walk down festive pathways and explore immersive displays throughout the Zoo. Marvel at glowing lantern animals in their dazzling habitats, watch live nightly musical performances, take a ride on the train or the Conservation Carousel, sample sweet and savory seasonal treats, and check gifts off your holiday shopping lists at our Asia Trail, Panda Plaza and Great Cats stores. 

  • Week 1: Friday, Nov. 21 – Sunday, Nov. 23
  • Week 2: Friday, Nov. 28 – Sunday, Nov. 30
  • Week 3: Thursday, Dec. 4 – Sunday, Dec. 7
  • Week 4: Friday, Dec. 12 – Sunday, Dec. 14
  • Week 5: Wednesday, Dec. 17 – Sunday, Dec. 21
  • Week 6: Monday, Dec. 22 – Tuesday, Dec. 23 & Friday, Dec. 26 - Sunday, Dec. 28
  • Week 7: Monday, Dec. 29 – Tuesday, Dec. 30 & Friday, January 2 - Saturday, January 3
  • Donor Night: Dec. 3
  • Adults Only Night: Wednesday, Dec. 17
  • Member Nights: Tuesday, Dec. 9, Wednesday, Dec. 10, Thursday, Dec. 11

ZooLights does not feature the Zoo’s animals. All indoor animal exhibits will be closed to allow animals to get a full night’s rest. 

Proceeds from this event directly benefit animal care and conservation science at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.

Visitors stroll down a path with illuminated, decorated trees surrounding them.
An aquatic scene featuring a tropical fish and seashells.
Carousel at the Zoo lit up with glowing holiday string lights.
Festive carolers perform on stage at Zoolights.
A picture of three glowing lanterns that are shaped to look like zebras
A couple holding hands while admiring jellyfish lanterns.

More Information

Tickets

Each attendee, including children over the age of 2, will need a ticket. To help Zoo staff scan tickets efficiently, all members of a single party should plan on entering the event together.  

Parking

Parking is available for pre-purchase online.

Refunds and Exchanges

Ticket refunds are not available, but guests may transfer their purchased tickets to a different date. Transfers cannot be made within 48 hours of the original event date.

Weather policy

ZooLights is open rain or shine. However, staff may limit certain activities in inclement weather. If severe weather forces a full cancellation, guests will receive a refund for their tickets. Be sure to check the Zoo’s website and/or social media for any weather-related updates.

Parking

A flat-rate parking fee of $30 applies to all ZooLights attendees. Last entry to ZooLights is at 8:30 p.m. on  Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and 7:30 p.m. on Sundays. Members receive free parking at ZooLights for one Member Night of their choice.

Refunds for parking passes are not available. Guests may transfer their purchased passes to a different date up to 48 hours before the original event date.

Bus parking for ZooLights is available for $60 on weekdays and $90 on weekends. Groups interested in bus parking can send inquiries to zooparking@si.edu.

Walking

Zoo visitors traveling on foot may enter from the Connecticut Avenue pedestrian entrance or the Harvard Street bridge entrance.

Metro

The Zoo is accessible via the Red Line to the Woodley Park-Zoo or Cleveland Park stations. The Zoo entrance lies halfway between these stops, and both are a short walk from the Zoo.

Zoo Members can attend special members-only nights on Dec. 5, Dec. 12, and January 2, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Member Nights

Members and their families can enjoy:

  • One free parking pass* (requires advance reservation)
  • Six free entry tickets
  • Free unlimited rides on the Conservation Carousel, weather permitting
  • 15% off in-park food and retail
  • After-hours access to indoor animal exhibits Small Mammal House, Elephant Community Center and Reptile Discovery Center

Important Information

Don’t forget to present your membership card and photo ID at checkout to receive food and retail discounts.

To help Zoo staff scan tickets efficiently, members and their guests should plan on entering the event together.  

Additional tickets may be purchased at $6 per individual. 

Member tickets and parking passes may sell out ahead of time, so book ahead online to guarantee your spot. 

*Free ZooLights parking reservation does not count towards annual free parking pass benefit.

Families can enjoy special seasonal treats, including s’mores, hot chocolate, and warm alcoholic drinks (for those age 21+) at Vintage Views. Hungry visitors can dine indoors at Elevation Burger, outdoors at Sbarro Pizza or enjoy ZooLights specials at the Bootheel BBQ food truck. 

The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is committed to providing inclusive experiences for all audiences. If you need any assistance, please ask at the Visitor's Center or Lion/Tiger Information Desk.

Sensory Information

If a pre-visit guide highlighting what you may encounter during your visit to ZooLights is a helpful resource, please check out the following: 

ZooLights Social Narrative

ZooLights Sensory-Friendly Tip Sheet

Getting Around the Zoo

All ZooLights pathways are wheelchair accessible. Please note that the Zoo’s main pathway is located on a hill with a significant incline.

For more information, email our Visitor Services team. 

Wheelchair and Electronic Vehicle Rental

Wheelchairs and electronic vehicles are available on a first-come, first-served basis during ZooLights hours from 5-9 p.m. (5-8 p.m. Sundays.) A state-issued driver's license or identification card is required to rent and operate wheelchairs and electronic vehicles.

Manual wheelchairs are available inside the Visitor Center and at the Information Station at Lion-Tiger Hill (parking lot D).

Cost: Free

Electronic convenience vehicles are available for rent on a first-come, first-serve basis. Find them inside the Visitor Center and at the Information Station at Lion-Tiger Hill (near parking lot D). 

Cost: $30 for members, $40 for non-members

Accessible Restrooms

Restrooms are located at the Visitor Center, Panda Plaza and Conservation Pavilion. All restrooms throughout the Zoo are accessible. The Visitor Center’s restrooms, water fountains and Asia Trail gift shop are accessible via wheelchair lift.

Family restrooms are located in the Visitor Center and Conservation Pavilion. All restrooms at the Zoo have automatic flushing mechanisms.

To contact our Events team, click here.

The Pavilion at ZooLights is the perfect location for your next holiday party. Located in the heart of the Zoo, this private and exclusive venue is open for bookings throughout the entire ZooLights season.