Zoo Lights powered by CPS Energy
Get ready to step into a winter wonderland as San Antonio Zoo unveils Zoo Lights, Powered by CPS Energy—the most magical and enchanting holiday celebration!
Zoo Lights, Powered by CPS Energy, will transform San Antonio Zoo into a winter wonderland from November 15, 2025 to January 4, 2026. Get ready to be swept away by the holiday spirit as you explore miles of dazzling lights, festive music, and whimsical displays.
Immerse yourself in a world of twinkling lights and vibrant displays across our unique realms. With bigger, brighter, and wilder attractions than ever before, Zoo Lights, Powered by CPS Energy, guarantees an unforgettable holiday light extravaganza.
Mark your calendars and join us for the wildest celebration in San Antonio!
Daily Activities
Pick-a-Present: 12:00 p.m. – Close
Lakeside Lightshow: 6:00 p.m. – Close (Plays every 20 minutes)
- S’mores Pits: 12:00 p.m. – Close
Santa Photos: at Beastro Restaurant, reserve a time HERE
Weekend Activities
Thanksgiving Day
DJ Mayhem: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. @ Great Lawn
Carolers: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. @ Jag Pavers
Slime Party: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. @ Great Lawn
November 29
Mascot Appearance: 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
Hype Squad Story Time: 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
Mascot Appearance: 3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
Hype Squad Story Time: 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
DJ: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. @ Great Lawn
November 30
Mascot Appearance: 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
Hype Squad Story Time: 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
Mascot Appearance: 3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
Hype Squad Story Time: 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. @ Meme’s Pavilion
DJ: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. @ Great Lawn
Zoo Lights Realms
The Enchanted Tree, Sponsored by CPS Energy
NEW this year! The Enchanted Tree in H-E-B Plaza shimmers with breathtaking uplighting and a trunk wrapped in golden lights. Surrounded by glowing evergreens, this radiant centerpiece fills the air with wonder and marks the beginning of an unforgettable Zoo Lights adventure.
Lights on the Lawn, Sponsored by Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union
NEW this year! Step onto the Great Lawn and take in a spectacular LED Christmas tree surrounded by brilliant lights! Feel the rhythm of the season with magical snowfall and DJ beats on select weekends as this brand-new feature becomes the heart of holiday celebration and excitement.
Cathedral Tunnel, Sponsored by Beluga Air
NEW this year! Walk beneath the breathtaking Cathedral Tunnel, located along the Snake Pathway near the Zoo Entrance. Covered in thousands of twinkling lights that arch overhead, this luminous walkway creates a glowing canopy of color and wonder. It’s the perfect spot for a magical selfie, a family photo, or simply taking in the beauty of Zoo Lights all around you.
Lakeside Lightshow, Sponsored by CPS Energy
Experience pure holiday magic as the Lakeside Lightshow fills the night with dancing lights perfectly timed to beloved holiday songs. Curtains of light ripple across the water while snow drifts gently through Zootennial Plaza, creating a scene that feels straight from a dream.
Santa Photos, Sponsored by Beluga Air
Meet Santa inside our Beastro Restaurant and capture the sparkle of the season with a festive family photo. It’s a joyful memory you’ll cherish forever, complete with twinkling décor and cheerful holiday spirit found only at the zoo.
Holiday Performance Pavilion, Sponsored by Groundworks
Head to Meme’s Pavilion for nonstop holiday cheer and Zoo Vibes performances that lift every heart! Enjoy music, laughter, and weekend meet-and-greets with our famous mascots, Cowboy and Savanna, as the stage lights up with joy and celebration.
Candy Lane, Sponsored by CPS Energy
Wander through Candy Lane in Africa Live!, where red and white lights twirl around the trees like giant candy canes and oversized sweets make the scene sparkle. Warm up by the s’more pits nearby in Flamingo Flats and savor the sweetest holiday moments.
Water Wonderland, Sponsored by Baptist Health System
Immerse yourself in the glow of Water Wonderland, a sparkling underwater dreamscape filled with shimmering sea creatures and rippling blue light. Let the whimsical seaweed décor sway above you as you drift through a world of festive ocean magic.
Starry Safari, Sponsored by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services
Journey through Starry Safari in Go Wild!, where illuminated animals from graceful giraffes to playful bears light up the night. It’s a breathtaking blend of wildlife and wonder that celebrates nature under a sky full of holiday stars.
Fa-la-la-Flamingo, Sponsored by Community First Health Plans
Everything’s merry and bright in Fa-la-la-Flamingo at Birds of the World! Step inside a glowing tunnel of flamingos and twinkling pink trees for a tropical twist on holiday cheer that dazzles with every step.
Polar Point, Sponsored by CPS Energy
Enter the frosty glow of Polar Point, where friendly snowmen sparkle beneath icy blue lights. It’s the perfect place to snap a photo, share a laugh, and soak in the peaceful magic of the winter season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of admission for Zoo Lights?
Check back soon, or become a Member: https://sazoo.org/memberships/
Can I schedule a visit with Santa before visiting the zoo?
Yes, you can plan ahead and schedule your visit/photo with Santa in advance.
Where should you park?
We have multiple areas to park such as our new Parking Garage or the parking lot by the Train Depot.
Will the animals be out in the evening during Zoo Lights?
The animals tuck in for the evening when San Antonio Zoo transforms into a wild, winter wonderland.
What time do the lights come on?
Lights begin to come on as the sun goes down. Please check hours of operation.
Pictures with Santa
Don't miss Santa pictures at San Antonio Zoo!
Capture holiday magic with a visit to Santa’s Workshop! Santa returns with the enchanting Santa Magic photo experience by Cherry Hill Programs (CHP), making this season unforgettable for families and friends.
As North America’s premier provider of experiential photography, CHP brings holiday magic to hundreds of venues, enchanting families and individuals alike.
Please Note: Multiple families are scheduled during the selected 15-minute time.
Thank you to our Sponsors:
