Christmas in the Wild
Guests explore immersive holiday realms filled with thousands of twinkling lights, cheerful music, and festive entertainment. The event features winter-themed animal experiences, interactive family shows, and opportunities to meet and take photos with Santa. Visitors can also sample seasonal food treats and drinks available throughout the zoo.
What to Expect
Features one of Tampa Bay’s largest holiday light displays and wildlife.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
North Tampa
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Food & Drink
Seasonal treats and drinks are available, and the event’s Foodie Guide lists winter-themed delicacies and where to find them.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Bright, festive, family-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $34.95. – Get tickets
- Accessibility: ZooTampa works with the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities and offers a Sequencing Guide for neurodiverse guests.
Tips & Advice
- Download the ZooTampa app before you arrive to get walking directions to event locations and to see the nightly show schedule.
- Add a Holiday African Penguin Encounter if your family wants to meet a penguin up close; it is sold separately and open to all ages.
- Members and Zoo Fun ticket holders get in free with no reservation, but members can only bring as many people as are listed on their pass.
- Have your emailed event tickets ready at the gate, since general admission guests must show them, and children 2 and under get in free.
- Look at the Foodie Guide before your visit to see which winter-themed treats are available and where to find them in the zoo.
Special Events & Promotions
- Members get early access to Member Preview Nights on November 27 and 28.
- Members and Zoo Fun ticket holders receive free admission without reservations; Zoo Fun admission applies to the ticket holder only.
- Guests age 2 and under are admitted free; all other party members need an event ticket.
- This season brings new festive adventures, with the event described as bigger, better, and brighter than ever.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to see and do?
There are areas full of twinkling lights, cheerful music and surprises, and a chance to get your picture with Santa. You'll also find interactive family shows, winter-themed Wildlife Connections and festive entertainment all over the zoo.
Can young children do the Holiday African Penguin Encounter?
Yes, it's open to all ages. Kids 2 and under are free and don't need a ticket. Everyone 3 and up needs a ticket, and children 17 and under must come with a paying adult who takes part.
What food and drink is there?
There are holiday treats and drinks across the zoo. The Christmas in the Wild Foodie Guide lists the winter-themed specials and where to find them.
Is there support for neurodiverse visitors?
Yes. ZooTampa works with the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities and has a Sequencing Guide to help visitors know what to expect.
What happens if it rains?
The event goes ahead rain or shine, and tickets can't be refunded. It may be canceled if the weather is unsafe, and ticket holders are told by email about any schedule changes.
More Christmas Events Near Tampa
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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.