CLEVELAND — In just a few weeks, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will transform into a winter wonderland with more than one million lights for the public to enjoy.


What You Need To Know

  • Wild Winter Lights will run from Nov. 16 to Jan. 2

  • Guests will have the option to walk through the park or drive around, but ticket prices and dates for both are different

  • Zoo officials this year will be much different from the last few years with new displays

The zoo announced Wild Winter Lights will return this year, starting Nov. 16 through Jan. 2. Guests will have the option to either walk through the park or drive around. 

Zoo officials said it won't be the same display as the past two years. It will be entirely new, with a 50-foot tall tree, light shows, ice carvers, live music and characters in full costume. Some themes include Candyland, Enchanted Forest and Santa’s Workshop, where people can get a picture with Santa Claus.

The Wild Winter Lights returned the last two years but before then, it wasn't put on for 14 years. 

“The tradition of celebrating the holiday season at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo continues thanks to the strong support of our community partners," said Kelly Manderfield, the Cleveland Metroparks chief marketing officer, in a statement.

While most of the dates are open for walkers, specific dates are for those who which to drive around the displays: Nov. 16-17, Nov. 23, Nov. 30, Dec. 1, Dec. 7-8, Dec. 13-15 and Jan. 2.

To walk around, tickets will cost $20. For cars, it's $60 but there are discounts available.