ZOOLIGHTS, one of Calgary’s most iconic winter traditions, is back, lighting up the heart of the city. Thousands of twinkling lights, cozy fire pits, installations and activities transform Canada’s most visited zoo into a picture-perfect winter wonderland.
“For nearly three decades, ZOOLIGHTS has been a cherished holiday tradition in Calgary, inviting generations to share in the magic of the season,” says Alison Archambault, director of brand and public relations at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. “It’s more than a celebration of light; it’s a reflection of our community’s warmth and our shared commitment to protecting wildlife for the future.”
From dazzling new light installations to accessible ticket options, ZOOLIGHTS offers an unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays while supporting vital conservation work.
New this year
Always evolving to give every guest an exciting adventure, this year’s ZOOLIGHTS brings bold new additions. Penguin Plaza has transformed into an immersive North Pole experience, presented by the Calgary Hitmen, guiding guests to Santa’s Polar Palace for nightly visits from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. until December 23.
Food festivities
ZOOLIGHTS serves up seasonal bites for every appetite. Guests looking for casual options can enjoy 50 per cent off kids’ meals (with the purchase of two handheld items) nightly from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Limited-time menu items include cheese and pepperoni pizza dogs, fiesta tater tots and fried apple turnovers.
Looking to savour something extra special? The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s award-winning catering team has a range of elevated dining experiences this season. The ZOOLIGHTS Festive Feast buffet offers turkey stew, “AAA” beef bourguignon and a hearty vegetarian leek, lentil and mushroom ragu — a warm and cozy refuel before you head back out onto the grounds.
Zoo lights 2024
Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS
An evening visit this time of year truly is magical — from mischievous elves taking over Prehistoric Park, to a singing tree display in the Dorothy Harvie Gardens and a brand-new 100-foot light tunnel. And if you’re missing the more than 100 species that call the zoo home, the Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS combo ticket has you covered. Starting at $32.90, guests can access the zoo from 1 p.m. onward to explore the habitats and visit favourite animals — including recent arrival ‘Nyawa,’ the Malayan tapir — then stay after sunset to experience all the enchantment of ZOOLIGHTS.
Cool nights, warm lights
Whatever the weather, ZOOLIGHTS is a memorable holiday experience with family, friends, coworkers or that special someone. Don’t miss its biggest, brightest and wildest season yet, ready to welcome you now until January 4, 2026.
For tickets and information, visit calgaryzoo.com/zoolights
This content was produced in partnership with the advertiser by RedPoint Media for commercial purposes.
