by Noella Noelophile®
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
This Thursday evening, November 13th at 6:00, “L.A. Zoo Lights” blaze to life again.
Billed as “L.A.’s Wildest Holiday Tradition”, “L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow” runs on select evenings from November 13th through Sunday, January 11th, 2026. Tickets are currently on sale.
A journey through this year’s ten light displays, as detailed on L.A. Zoo’s event map, will reveal why L.A. Zoo has consistently made USA Today’s “Top Ten” list of “Best Zoo Lights”.
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
New additions this year, as described in an L. A. Zoo press release, spotlight “the weird and wonderful world of plants and pollinators.”
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
Larger-than-life birds, butterflies, insects and flowers will be–spotlighted? No, better than that. They’ll be depicted in lanterns illuminated by spectacular sculptural lights.
Visitors will get to see displays depicting wildlife of Southeast Asia…
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
…as well as an African landscape that includes representation of the continent’s iconic regions and wildlife.
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
In addition to the new features, some crowd favorites are back for Christmas 2025: the giant walk-through kaleidoscope, interactive displays and seasonal treats including hot chocolate, s’mores and churros.
Photo opportunities abound, throughout the park, and on select nights, Santa will be on hand for pictures!
And absolutely, don’t miss your opportunity to ride the Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel. Be sure to say “hi” to my favorites among the hand-carved wooden figures depicting endangered species: the dung beetle and the snow leopard!
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
Expect a trip through “Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow” to take about two hours, at a nice leisurely pace that gives you time to see everything, stop for a snack if you’re so inclined, take pictures and, perhaps, do some specialty Christmas shopping at the zoo’s International Marketplace or their Holiday Room.
Technically, as mentioned in the event’s FAQs, visitors could complete the tour in 60 to 90 minutes–but I’ve always liked to linger.
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
“L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow” offers two entry times, each evening: 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm. While tickets are available online (which I recommend, this is a popular event!), their box office opens at 5:45 pm. Admission gates close at 8:45 pm.
In addition to the regular festivities, “L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow” will offer two special community events.
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
On Tuesday, December 9th, they’ll host “Sensory-Inclusive Zoo Lights”, providing sensory accommodations for all guests.
Smaller crowds will be admitted. Music will be quieter. Sensory bags will be available, on a first-come, first-served basis, and unlike other evenings of “Zoo Lights”, reentry will be possible, once guests have left the park.
(Photo courtesy of L.A. Zoo.)
Then, on Thursday, January 8th, 2026, “L.A. Zoo Lights” celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community, with added festivities, including an all-ages DJ dance party.
And as we celebrate and welcome all, let’s not forget our veterans, who gave us the freedom to do so.
“L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow” offers military discounts, which are available only at the box office. Members of the military are requested to present a valid military ID at the time of ticket purchase.
Have a great time, and get some amazing pictures in that giant kaleidoscope especially!