Holiday Nights at Zoo Montana
Visitors can walk through displays featuring more than 15 million holiday lights and gather around bonfires throughout the zoo. The experience includes photo stops, festive displays, and wagon rides. Refreshments such as hot cocoa and s'mores are available for purchase, along with private heated igloos and s'mores tents.
What to Expect
Walk through more than 15 million lights across ZooMontana.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Holiday Nights
Food & Drink
Food and beverages are available for purchase; reserved S’mores Tents and Igloo Island include hot chocolate or cocoa and s’mores supplies.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and groups who enjoy holiday lights
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Pricing varies by night: Value—Adult $18, Child (4-12) $13, Child 3 and under free; Senior (60+) & Veteran $15 (gate only, valid ID required), S'mores Tent $235, Igloo Island $525. Classic—Adult $22, Child $14; Senior & Veteran $18 (gate only, valid ID required), S'mores Tent $285, Igloo Island $625. Peak—Adult $25, Child $16; Senior & Veteran $21 (gate only, valid ID required), S'mores Tent $335, Igloo Island $745. Premium—Adult $29, Child $18; Senior & Veteran $24 (gate only, valid ID required), S'mores Tent $385, Igloo Island $875. Wagon rides $6 per person per ride. Parking: $6 per vehicle (non-surge); $11 per vehicle (surge times Dec 18th–23rd). – Get tickets
- Hours: Gates open 5:00–8:30 PM; lights out at 9:00 PM. December 22 and 23: gates open 5:00–9:30 PM; lights out at 10:00 PM.
- Parking: $6 per vehicle (non-surge); $11 per vehicle during surge times Dec 18th–23rd.
- Accessibility: The zoo is equipped to handle wagons, strollers, and wheelchairs, though ground conditions vary with winter weather; contact staff at least 48 hours in advance for special accommodations.
- Pets: No pets allowed.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets ahead for the night you want, because ticket window lines get long and nights can sell out.
- Reserve a S'mores Tent or Igloo Island early, since those dates are booked in advance and do sell out.
- Dress for the weather, because Holiday Nights is outdoors in a Montana winter and severe conditions can close it, so check Facebook before you head out.
- Leave outside food, water bottles, weapons and toy weapons at home, since bags are checked and metal detectors are used at the entrance.
- If you need a quieter visit, come on the December 7 or 16 Low Sensory Night, when the music is lower, strobes are off and crowds are limited.
Special Events & Promotions
- Low Sensory Nights on Monday, December 7 and Wednesday, December 16
- New this year: open the evening of Christmas Day
- New this year: later hours on December 22 and 23
- Private S'mores Tents and heated Igloo Island, booked separately, with admission, bonfire, hot cocoa and s'mores included
- New for 2026: ticket prices change by night across Value, Classic, Peak and Premium dates, with Low Sensory Nights on Value pricing
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
No outside food, drinks, coolers or water bottles are allowed. Baby food, formula and bottles are fine, and food and drinks are sold throughout the event.
What are Low Sensory Nights?
On December 7 and 16, the music is turned down, strobing lights are off and attendance is limited. Christmas characters stay in set areas so you can avoid them, and Eagle Mount is there to help guests.
Can we leave and come back the same night?
Yes. Get a re-entry stamp before you leave.
Where do S'mores Tent guests check in?
Skip the line and check in at the front gate under the green VIP Check-In flag. You get your tent assignment at the red hut by the front gate.
Can I switch my ticket to another night?
Yes. Exchange general admission tickets through My Tickets or your confirmation email at least 24 hours ahead. S'mores Tent and Igloo Island bookings must be changed through Leap Customer Care at least 10 days before.
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We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.