Lakeside Lightshow

San Antonio’s holiday vibe is represented in the refreshed high-energy Lakeside Light
Show! Featuring pixel technology combined with a custom soundtrack, this energetic show will get guests dancing to their favorite Christmas tunes along with Latin-inspired songs.

ADVISORY: This show consists of loud music and continuous flashing lights. Please be aware if you have photo or sensory sensitivity.

Reindeer Row

Stop by and view these life-size reindeer beautifully lit to capture the season’s essence and spirit.

Holiday Plaza

As you enter the zoo, take a family photo in front of our iconic Lion’s Pride statue, complete with festive Christmas lights and large ornaments with some zoo-nique décor!

Starry Safari

Enjoy life-sized illuminated animals from the savanna, including a 15-foot tall illuminated giraffe. Stroll through our NEW Tree Trail located in Starry Safari (Great Lawn), enjoy a sea of bright lights and Christmas trees! It’s the perfect place to have a winter-themed photo shoot for your family and friends. You might even recognize some of the zoo’s iconic themes like Kiddie Park, Will Smith Zoo School, and Cowboy, the zoo’s mascot. Stop by NEW Tinsel Tots, this new kid-friendly shop designed for little ones to pick out a present for their loved ones is located in Discovery House. Hey kids, want to give your parents the perfect present? For $10, little ones can receive “Elf Bucks” to go shopping in an age-appropriate shop designed to pick out and wrap the perfect gift for their loved ones with help from our elves!

FAO Schwarz Tony Parker Animal Collection

Even BIGGER than before will be the FAO Schwarz Tony Parker Animal Collection. Retired Spurs point guard, Zoo Board Member, and long-time supporter of the zoo, Tony Parker, generously donated his collection of unique plush animals from the famed toy store for Whataburger Zoo Lights. These lovable animals are located in the Beastro Restaurant and available for fun, unforgettable selfies!

Camel Holiday Trek

Take an unforgettable journey to experience this unique animal adventure complete with camel rides. Stroll among twinkling light displays that have transformed Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot.

Polar Point

Covered with twinkling blue lights and giant snowmen, Polar Point will make you feel like you’re in the Arctic. Plus, families can visit Santa’s Workshop and hop in Santa’s sleigh to take a socially-distanced photo. Don’t forget to share your Christmas wish list with him too!

Fa La La Flamingo

Deck the halls with smiles and laughter while in Fa La La Flamingo! These lights will have you tickled pink as you walk under illuminated flying flamingos.

Lights of Africa

Take a journey through Africa in San Antonio decorated with red and yellow lights along Big Cat Valley.

Visit with Santa, ride the Holiday Express, and experience activities such as camel rides

*Additional fees may apply.

Live Theatre Performances

NEW this year is the C&C !mpact Youth Theater LIVE performances taking place select Fridays and Saturdays during the hours of 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Enjoy stories of the season told through
youth performances.

Camel Rides

Experience this unique animal adventure and take a journey along twinkling lights while on a camel. Get up-to these majestic animals like never before with experts on hand to guide you around a track while riding a trained camel. Camel rides are available daily and located in Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot.

Holiday Express

All aboard the Holiday Express train ride! Embark on an unforgettable journey through Brackenridge Park that includes a special gift from Santa. Tickets can be purchased at the Train Depot.

Pick A Present

For all the good little girls and boys, Santa left a few presents to take home and place under your Christmas tree. Stop by and pick a present!  Winner every time!

Visit Santa

Come tell Santa what you would like for Christmas and take a photo with him.

Cookie Decorating

Every night you will be able to decorate cookies at Santa’s Workshop

Get into the holiday spirit and roast marshmallows by the fire or enjoy some of your favorite Christmas time treats like hot cocoa and cookies!

*Additional fees may apply.

S’mores & More

Get into the holiday spirit and roast marshmallows by the fire. Gather around to Whataburger Zoo Lights campfire and savor the irresistible goodness of a s’mores treat. Hot cocoa is also available at these stations to accompany these tasty snacks.

*Additional fees may apply.

Long Necks Bar and Grill

Relax, enjoy, take in the fabulous view from an African-inspired open-air cafe, while feasting on American classic flavor with a Southwest twist.

Beastro Restaurant

Spacious and trendy, Beastro Restaurant offers a great view of the zoo’s impressive carousel and lake as well as delicious burgers and pizza. Dessert options are also available.

What is the cost of admission for Whataburger Zoo Lights?

• Standard admission is $21.99 for adults and $18.99 for children

Additional costs such as Santa, camels, and s’mores?

• Yes, there are some elements of Whataburger Zoo Lights that are an additional cost such as a photo with Santa, camel rides ($8) and s’mores ($5).

Dates and Hours of events?

• For operating hours, CLICK HERE.

Where should you park?

• We have multiple areas to park such as our new Parking Garage or the parking lot by the Train Depot.

What is new this year?

• We have expanded lights in some of our areas and have Kiddie Park open at night for the first time.

Will the animals be out in the evening during Whataburger 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 (between 5:30 and 7:00 p.m.).