Zoo Launches Holiday Light Walk

The Philadelphia Zoo will reopen its evening grounds on Nov. 19 for the annual LumiNature event, a holiday walk featuring one million lights that runs through Jan. 9, 2027. The attraction operates on select nights from 5 to 9 p.m., requiring advance online reservations for all visitors.

This year’s event introduces a Book of Wishes that guides families through 14 stops along the path. The booklet contains clues related to animal activities and preferences. Visitors will encounter oversized letters addressed to Santa Claws, a lion character who will hold a lodge in the Garden Pavilion for selfies.

New installations include a 20-foot illuminated banana tree surrounded by glowing vines and primate figures. A woodland display inspired by the zoo’s bears and a field containing thousands of lights also debut. The 40-foot penguin from previous years returns to stand over Bird Lake Plaza, joining a tree constructed from approximately 1,500 pink lawn flamingos.

KidZooU will operate every evening during the event, a first for the attraction. Animal meet-and-greets, wildlife chats, and activities are scheduled every 30 minutes between 5 and 7 p.m. Families can purchase Zoo Keys to activate interactive features at five locations. The 110-foot Pherris Wheel remains available, with ticket bundles that include a ride offered for purchase.

Contextual pricing and logistics show adult timed tickets starting at $27, with children under 2 admitted free. Parking costs $22 for non-members and is free for zoo members. The zoo will close on Dec. 24, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1, but will remain open on New Year’s Eve. Food options include hot chocolate, seasonal snacks, and alcoholic drinks for adults, while community groups in West Philadelphia have decorated trees for voting at Santa Claws’ Lodge.