TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights
Visitors explore the Houston Zoo after dark along illuminated pathways filled with wildlife-themed light displays. Along the light path, guests can stop for seasonal treats like s'mores, churro fries, and hot chocolate. Multiple food spots, including Savannah Cafe, Jack's Cafe, and Cypress Circle Café, remain open during the event.
What to Expect
Explore glowing pathways and wildlife-themed holiday light displays after dark.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Hermann Park
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Houston Zoo
Food & Drink
Along the path, guests can get hot chocolate, s’mores, and churro fries, while Savannah Cafe, Jack’s Cafe, and Cypress Circle Café serve food during Zoo Lights hours.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday light lovers
Vibe
Festive and glowing
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Children ages two and under are free; children ages three and older need a separate ticket.
- Hours: 5:30–10:30 p.m.; last entry at 9:30 p.m. Christmas Night starts at 5:30 p.m.
- Parking: The main entrance is at 6200 Hermann Park Drive. The Zoo’s Medical Center entrance will be closed for entry. The Zoo has no parking lot; free Hermann Park lots are outside the Zoo and can fill quickly. More parking options are linked.
- Accessibility: Scooter rentals are available during Zoo Lights via credit card payment.
Tips & Advice
- Leave extra time to park, because the Zoo has no lot of its own and the free Hermann Park lots outside it fill up quickly.
- Go to the main entrance at 6200 Hermann Park Drive, since the Zoo's Medical Center entrance is closed for Zoo Lights.
- Choose your date carefully, because tickets are good only on the selected date and all payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Bring a credit card if you plan to rent a stroller or scooter, because rentals can't be paid any other way.
- Bring your ID if you're claiming the military, first responder or educator discount, since it is checked at entry and limited to five tickets.
Special Events & Promotions
- New this year: Christmas Night at the Zoo on December 25, the first time Zoo Lights opens on Christmas Day.
- Sensory Inclusive Night on November 30, with lower music volume and limited flashing lights.
- Members-only Preview nights on November 17 and 18, before Zoo Lights opens to the public, plus member discounts on tickets.
- Military, first responders and educators get 10% off admission all season with ID at entry, up to five tickets.
- School and community choirs of up to 40 performers can book a performance at Zoo Lights. Performers get free tickets, and the group must buy a minimum number of spectator tickets.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I see animals during Zoo Lights?
The main attraction is the light path and animal-themed displays. To see the animals, visit the Houston Zoo during the day.
What food and drink is available?
Along the path you'll find hot chocolate, s'mores and churro fries. Savannah Cafe, Jack's Cafe and Cypress Circle Café are also open during Zoo Lights.
Is there a sensory-friendly night?
Yes. Sensory Inclusive Night is November 30, with lower music volume and limited flashing lights across the Zoo. The Zoo is a Certified Autism Center, with specially trained staff, quiet spaces and extra support.
Can I rent a stroller or scooter?
Yes. Stroller and scooter rentals are available during Zoo Lights, and they can be paid for by credit card only.
What happens if it rains?
Zoo Lights goes ahead rain or shine. All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
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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.