Opens November 16 & then opens daily November 22 – December 31. Whataburger Zoo Lights is a holiday tradition for the whole family! When the animals tuck in for the evening, San Antonio Zoo transforms into a wild, winter wonderland filled with a jaw-dropping array of twinkling lights. Bigger and brighter than before, Zoo Lights is a must-see for families that is sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit! Guests can see life-sized animals from the savanna, including a 15-foot tall illuminated giraffe in Starry Safari. While sipping hot cocoa, guests can stroll under a unique display of lights, roast s’mores, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, and visit Santa. Back by popular demand is the high-energy, not your traditional Christmas light display, the Lakeside Light Show! Featuring pixel technology combined with a custom soundtrack that is composed of Dubstep, EDM and Hip Hop, this high-energy show will get guests dancing to their favorite Christmas tunes!
Monday – Friday: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sights
Lakeside Lightshow
Watch this awe-inspiring , exclusive light show at Zootennial Plaza. This is not your traditional light show. Utilizing Pixel technology and a custom soundtrack composed of Dubstep, EDM, and hip-hop, the result is an exciting light show that feels like the ultimate dance party.
ADVISORY: This show consists of loud music and continuous flashing lights. Please be aware if you have photo or sensory sensitivity.
Starry Safari
Guests can see life-sized animals from the savanna, including a 15-foot tall illuminated giraffe in the all-new Starry Safari.
North Pole
This is Santa’s favorite place to be – there’s so much to do , hear and see! No visit would be complete without a stop at Santa’s very own workshop! Families can have their photo taken with Santa and don’t forget to share your Christmas wish list with him too.
Reindeer Row
Stop by and view these life-size reindeer beautifully lit to capture the essence and spirit of the season.
Spots, Stripes and Everything Lights
A zany, whimsical walk through an array of fun lights and patterns! Inspired by the stripes of the zebra and the spots of the cheetah this area delivers a creative collaboration with a multicolor celebration. Can you spot the holiday fun?
Cheetah Cheer
The holidays are a cheetah’s favorite time of year! Stroll down this path and enjoy thousands of lights creating a bright display purrfect for a cheerful holiday!
Polar Point
Covered with twinkling blue lights and some giant snowmen, Polar Point will make you feel like you’re in the Arctic.
Fa La La Flamingo
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.
Games & Activities
Visit with Santa, ride the train and experience activities such as camel rides and snow globe photos.
*Additional fees may apply.
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.
Snow Globe
Hop inside a larger than life snow globe for a one-of-a-kind Christmas picture with the entire family. This could make for a fun Holiday Greeting card!
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.
Cookies with Mrs. Claus
Every night you will be able to decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus in her diner.
Festive Eats
Get into the holiday spirit and roast marshallows by the fire or enjoy some of your favorite Christmastime 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 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.
MAKE YOUR ZOO VISIT AN ADVENTURE.
FUN DAY TICKET
Save $2 Online
Enhance your zoo experience with our Fun Day Ticket, which includes your standard admission, one Flamingo Mingle feeding experience, one carousel ride, and one Lory feeding.
BECOME AN ANNUAL PASS HOLDER
$40 per person
There's always something new to see at the zoo. Each year is packed with events and exciting additions. Don't miss out on all the fun of being an Annual Pass holder.
