Illustration of friends with warm drinks at a rooftop terrace party under fairy lights over the city (Brew Lights)
Christmas Parties

Brew Lights

Guests explore the zoo after hours beneath dazzling holiday lights and enchanting lanterns while sampling over 100 craft, local, and festive brews. The evening features holiday performances by local artists along with conservation stories shared by zoo experts. VIP ticket holders also enjoy catered light bites, an open liquor bar, animal encounters, and heated space access.

Fri, Dec 4, 2026 21+

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

General admission: $80 general public; $70 Riverbanks members. VIP admission: $150 general public; $130 Riverbanks members. VIP tickets include all general-admission benefits, 1-hour early access to Ndoki Plaza, exclusive festive beers and wines, catered light bites, an open liquor bar, private restrooms, a heated space, animal encounters, and a 2026 Brew Lights commemorative T-shirt.

Hours

7:00 – 9:30PM.

Food & Drink

Guests can sample over 100 craft, local, and festive brews; VIP admission also includes exclusive beers and wines, catered light bites, and an open liquor bar.

Location

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden · 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia SC 29210 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ (1/5)

Best For

Adults who enjoy craft beer and holiday lights

Vibe

Festive and social

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Buy tickets in advance because the event has limited availability, with a separately limited number of VIP tickets.
  • Riverbanks members can use the members-only presale and discounted admission, including lower-priced general admission and VIP tickets.
  • Choose VIP for one-hour-early access to Ndoki Plaza, exclusive beers and wines, catered bites, and a heated space.
  • Remember Brew Lights is for guests 21 and older, so it is not suitable for children or younger teens.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers for an evening exploring the zoo; VIP admission includes access to a heated space.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Riverbanks members have a members-only presale.
  • Riverbanks members receive member ticket pricing.
  • VIP admission includes early access to Ndoki Plaza.
  • For one night, Wild Lights transforms into a new experience for guests 21+.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend Brew Lights?

The event is for guests aged 21 and over.

What can I see and do during the event?

Explore the zoo after hours beneath holiday lights and lanterns, sample more than 100 craft, local and festive brews, hear local artists perform, and listen to conservation stories from zoo experts.

What food and drink is available?

Beer is part of general admission. VIP admission includes exclusive festive beers and wines, catered light bites, and an open liquor bar.

Should I buy tickets in advance?

Yes. Advance purchase is recommended, and only a limited number of tickets are available; VIP tickets are also limited.

What extra benefits come with VIP admission?

VIP admission includes early access to Ndoki Plaza, private restrooms, a heated space, animal encounters, and a commemorative T-shirt, as well as the listed food and drink.

Browse Christmas in Columbia

Always check the official website for the most current information.

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.

Contributors & Updates

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