Phoenix ZooLights: Schedule, tickets and what’s new
For more than three decades, ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo has been a beloved holiday tradition. Generations of families have enjoyed seeing how the zoo is transformed nightly into a magical display that includes millions of twinkling lights and colorful animal sculptures.
Whether you and your loved ones faithfully head to ZooLights every year or you are getting ready to experience it for the first time, we’re here to let you know what’s new for 2022, along with tips to make the most of your visit.
We reached out to Linda Hardwick, vice president of marketing, communications and events at the Phoenix Zoo, to get the latest updates on the sparkling event that has been glowing strong since 1992. Here’s what to expect.
For starters, the light show around the zoo’s lake has been reimagined.
“We are excited to host the largest floating tree in North America as part of our brand-new Lake Lights Show,” Hardwick said, adding that the 53-foottall digital tree takes ZooLights guests on a journey around the world through music, light and imagery.
“It is truly spectacular,” she said. “The tree is floating on the zoo’s main lake and at the end of each magical show, there’s a snowy surprise.”
The new Polar Park is also a must see, Hardwick said.
“At Polar Park you will find new LED Glow Swings, s’mores pits, hot beverages and kettle corn and an opportunity to visit and get a photo with Santa as he welcomes guests into an icy inflatable igloo,” she said, adding that photos with Santa are an additional charge.
What else can you do at ZooLights?
Plenty of familiar attractions are back as well.
“Some of my favorite activities include the Endangered Species Carousel and camel rides,” Hardwick said.
“Lanterns once again will light up the Africa Trail as you make your way to our Dinosaurs in the Desert experience. Enjoy more than two dozen prehistoric creatures under the light of the moon and the twinkles of ZooLights.”
Other activities include the Holiday Safari Animal Presentation nightly at 8 and 9 p.m. in the Doornbos Discovery Amphitheater and then, on select nights, community performances in the amphitheater.
And if you want to just relax and take in the scene, you can do that too.
“There is always something magical about grabbing a cup of hot cocoa and a bag of kettle corn and settling in on the comfy lounge chairs along the zoo’s main lake and watching the Lake Lights Show,” Hardwick said.
Can you still drive through ZooLights?
There is no drive-thru option this year. If the demand is there, Hardwick said, it will be considered for next year.
How long does it take to walk through ZooLights?
“It takes most people approximately 11⁄2 to 2 hours to walk through ZooLights, but even longer depending on if you choose to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, ride a camel or take a spin on the carousel,” Hardwick said.
What time does Phoenix ZooLights start?
“ZooLights shines bright every night from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Nov. 23-Jan. 15,” Hardwick said.
How much does it cost to go to ZooLights?
General admission tickets can be purchased online in advance for $30 ($25 for members). At the gate, tickets are $35 ($30 for members). Children 2 and younger get in free, Hardwick said.
Details: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway. 602-286-3800, https:// www.phoenixzoo.org.