Zoo Lights Houston

Zoo Lights Houston

Zoo Lights Houston 2024

Dates and Time

Ticket Options

New This Year

Holiday Favorites


For many families, the Zoo Lights Houston is a cherished holiday tradition. This annual event offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters, festive cheer, and sparkling displays. From playful penguins to majestic elephants, the zoo’s residents become the stars of the show! Learn all about the dates to visit, your ticket options, and what’s new this year.


Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, check out our recent articles on Winter Camps Houston, Candy Cane Lane Missouri City, and Alvin Christmas Lane!


Zoo Lights Houston Dates and Time

zoo lights houston

Image credit: Houston Zoo

Zoo Lights Houston is currently underway and will run until early next year with the last entry at 9:30 p.m. Expect to see new dazzling light displays, including the Whimsical Wildlife Tree at the end of Reflection Pool, the immersive Twinkle Trail sponsored by TC Energy in African Forest, Geo Prism Safari sponsored by PNC Bank, and more colorful displays


Houston Zoo Lights Ticket Options

houston zoo lights

Image credit: Houston Zoo

Purchase tickets in advance online for the best prices, as tickets are not available for purchase at the Zoo gates. All Zoo Lights ticket sales are final.

Zoo members enjoy a 20% discount when they login into the Zoo Lights Member Portal, and a 10% discount is available for military personnel, first responders (firefighters, police, and EMTs), and educators. There’s also a limit of 5 discounted tickets per purchase for the Zoo Lights Houston.

  • How Much: $25.95 – $30.20

Houston Zoo Lights 2024 – New This Year

zoo lights houston 2024

Image credit: Houston Zoo

This year, there are new Zoo Lights Houston experiences just for you:

  • Capture a memorable photo in front of the brand-new Whimsical Wildlife Tree at the end of the Reflection Pool.
  • Indulge in festive fun with cookie decorating at Cypress Circle Cafe.
  • Stroll through the enchanting Twinkle Trail sponsored by TC Energy in African Forest.
  • Snap a photo at the dazzling Geo Prism Safari sponsored by PNC Bank.
  • Join the fun at the Snowy Sing-Along Stage located in the John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo.
  • Explore captivating pathways illuminated with colorful moving lights.

Zoo Lights Houston 2024 Holiday Favorites

houston zoo lights 2024

Image credit: Houston Zoo

Loved the Zoo Lights Houston last year? This year, the following are back:

  • Experience the magical Holiday Grove presented by TXU Energy, where animal-themed lanterns illuminate dancing trees beneath a canopy of shimmering winter lights.
  • Capture a memorable photo at Snowy Slopes.
  • Stroll through the vibrant Enchanted Forest, sponsored by H-E-B.
  • Enjoy the enchanting Winter Wonderland, sponsored by Houston Methodist.
  • Visit the iconic Coca-Cola Polar Bear display in Flamingo Terrace.
  • Don’t miss the chance to visit Santa’s Workshop at Twiga Café until December 23rd to say hello and take a photo.
  • Purchase festive treats! Enjoy hot cocoa (including a spiked option for adults), warm beignets, and more.
  • Bring home Zoo Lights memories and purchase a hot chocolate souvenir tumbler, a s’mores kit, a glow ornament necklace, or other festive gear when you buy your tickets.
  • Find the perfect souvenir and browse the Zoo Store for new holiday merchandise, including adorable capybara-themed sweatshirts and plush toys.

Stay on top of the latest Entertainment options in Houston with our Things to Do in Houston this Weekend and Kid Friendly Events in Houston this Weekend guides.

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Natalie Dulaney