Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Visitors explore six immersive lantern trails filled with hundreds of glowing animal lanterns representing regions from Africa to Latin America. The park features dazzling walk-through light tunnels, a synchronized musical holiday tree show, interactive glowing play spaces, and illuminated costumed performers. Guests can also watch ice carving demonstrations, see wildlife puppet theater, and visit animal exhibits including the Children's Zoo Farmyard, World of Darkness, and World of Reptiles.
What to Expect
Features six animal lantern safari trails and nighttime animal exhibits.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Bronx
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Wildlife Conservation Society
Food & Drink
Treats and seasonal drinks available for purchase include hot chocolate, warm apple cider, eggnog, cookies, peppermint bark, pumpkin pie, and s’mores; adults can add Irish Cream, Kahlúa, whiskey, or rum to seasonal drinks.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive, immersive, family-friendly
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Holiday Train rides cost $4, or $3 for members; they are free for Conservation-level Members. WCS Zoo and Land & Sea members get 25% tickets to all event days, and IDNYC and Aquarium members get 25% tickets to all event days. Conservation-level Members can reserve free Holiday Lights tickets throughout the celebration, based on availability. Free admission to member preview nights is based on availability. – Get tickets
- Hours: Arrive at 1 p.m. for the animal portion of the 2-in-1 ticket experience before staying for the lights.
- Accessibility: A Sensory Inclusive Night is offered on December 3.
Tips & Advice
- Reserve tickets in advance, then choose a date and time or an Any-Night ticket for flexibility when planning your visit.
- Arrive at 1 p.m. with your Holiday Lights ticket to see animals before the lantern displays light up in the evening.
- Bring a smartphone to view the zoo’s real-time information and interactive map while navigating the event.
- Dress for outdoor winter conditions; the event runs rain or shine, so prepare for weather during your visit.
- Check activity availability during the event, since offerings may change because of unforeseen conditions.
Special Events & Promotions
- Children aged 2 and under enter free.
- Date-specific tickets offer savings when you select a visit date.
- WCS Zoo and Land & Sea members receive discounted tickets on all event days and have exclusive preview sessions on November 19–20.
- IDNYC and Aquarium members receive discounted tickets on all event days.
- Conservation-level Members can reserve free tickets throughout the event, subject to availability.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Holiday Lights suitable for children?
Yes. The event is family-friendly, with interactive light play, a Holiday Train for children, illuminated performers and wildlife theater.
Should I reserve tickets in advance?
Yes. Tickets are required and must be reserved in advance; availability for some sessions can be limited.
What can I see and do besides the lantern trails?
Explore light tunnels and interactive displays, watch the musical tree show and ice carving, and visit the animal exhibits open for Holiday Lights.
What food and drinks are available?
Treats for purchase include hot chocolate, warm apple cider, eggnog, cookies, peppermint bark, pumpkin pie and s’mores. Adults can add spirits to seasonal drinks.
What happens on Sensory Inclusive Night?
Sensory Inclusive Night is a special session. The event’s ticket information lists it for December 3.
More Christmas Events near Van Nest
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