COLUMBUS, Ohio — From a giant illuminated tree to smores, Columbus Zoo & Aquarium is going all out for this year’s Wildlights.

What You Need To Know

  • Wildlights will run from Nov. 22 to Jan. 5, with an exception for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

  • The event is included in zoo admission and it's free for members

  • Before the event opens to the public on Nov. 22, there will be a member day beforehand and a sensory-friendly stroll

The displays this year will have millions of LED lights as well as some new attractions for guests to enjoy.

From Nov. 22 to Jan. 5, 2025, some of the attractions will include:

  • Sparking Spruce: An animated holiday tree with a light and sound show
  • Jingle Jam: 36 spheres of light will dance to seasonal tunes
  • Holiday Tree Trail: Guests can meander through a slew of decked out trees

New this year is the makeover to Dino Island. There is a “Yule Tide Boat” that takes guests through a Jurassic journey to enjoy the lights.

A list of attractions can be found here.

In addition, Columbus Zoo members will have a preview of the display on Nov. 21, and there’s a sensory-friendly stroll taking place on Nov. 19.

Regular zoo hours will be 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. during the Wildlights season. The event itself runs Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The zoo will be closed for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. There will be no Wildlights on Christmas Eve.

Wildlights is included in regular zoo admission.

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