L.A. Zoo Lights returns to the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens on Friday, November 20, 2026. The nighttime walk runs on select evenings through January 10, 2027.
This year’s paths have all-new light installations themed to birds, butterflies, insects, flowers, marine life and Ice Age animals. The zoo says a typical visit takes 60 to 90 minutes.
Dates to know
Zoo Lights is closed November 26 and 30; December 1, 7, 14, 15, 16, 24, 25 and 31; and January 4 to 7. On event nights the box office is open 5:45 to 8:45 p.m.
Two community nights are on the calendar: a Sensory-Inclusive Zoo Lights on Tuesday, December 8, and Pride Night on Thursday, December 17.
Tickets
Tickets start at $19, and zoo members get discounts. The ice skating rink needs a separate ticket, and photos with Santa are sold separately. Parking is free.
For families
The carousel and carolers return on select nights, along with a giant snow globe photo spot and treats such as s’mores, churros and hot cocoa. Beer, wine and spiked cocoa are sold to guests 21 and older.
Sources
Featured photo: Zahill via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. The photo shows a jaguar at the Los Angeles Zoo during the day, not the Zoo Lights display.
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