Visiting the LA Zoo Lights has become a fun annual holiday tradition for us. The sparkling scenery is stunning, and it’s such a nice experience to stroll through the zoo with family and friends, enjoying all the beautiful light displays. This year’s LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow was the best yet! We must have exclaimed “ooh” and “wow!!” hundreds of times throughout the evening. They really topped themselves as everything felt even bigger and impressive compared to last year! The tigers, meerkats, and flamingos were all brilliantly illuminated, and I ended up snapping over 240 photos! There are countless opportunities for family pictures, and you can really see the hard work that went into creating the decorations and light sculptures. The LA Zoo Lights is definitely one of my top light displays in Los Angeles. There were lights everywhere, and we were genuinely amazed!
One of my favorite spots is near the Zoo Grill, where the trees are embellished with colorful butterflies. The area is so beautiful and mesmerizing. There’s a butterfly bridge in another part of the year and I love it! As you move toward the back of the zoo, there’s a lovely pathway that leads you through the mouth of a giant crocodile structure beyond the Asian elephant area.
My daughter and her friend had a blast dancing in a giant kaleidoscope tunnel! Kids can also take pictures on lit-up swings, ride the carousel (for an extra fee), and enjoy carolers along the way. There is also a photo opportunity with Santa and a fun illuminated sled that kids can climb into.
There are even themed nights, like pajama nights, Pride night, VIP events, and a family New Year’s Eve celebration where the ball drops at 9 PM PST—which is perfect for those of us who prefer to be in bed before midnight.
Parking is free and there’s plenty of it. There are snack stands open throughout the zoo. We definitely recommend grabbing a warm churro.
Just a heads up: the animals are all snoozing for the night, so don’t expect to see them. Wear comfy shoes as you walk through the whole experience—it does have some hills and inclines—and be sure to bundle up because it can get a bit chilly, which just adds to the festive vibe! ‘
Check out Groupon for discounted children tickets and the LA Zoo also offers value nights and weekends! I may go again! I loved it so much.
The L.A. Zoo welcomes guests to celebrate the holidays in its illuminated magical setting, creating a truly beautiful and memorable way to celebrate the season. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.lazoolights.org.
WHEN: November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
*Closed most Mondays and Tuesdays, plus Thanksgiving Day (November 28), Christmas Eve (December 24), and Christmas Day (December 25)
WHERE: Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027
TICKETS: Starting at $18 for children, $29 for adults; GLAZA members save up to 28% on tickets.
LA Zoo for provided complimentary tickets for review purposes.
