

Zoo Lights Powered by CPS Energy has ended. Please check back in Winter 2023.
Plan Your Visit Today




REALMS
Holiday Sing-A-Long Express
All Aboard! Sing your heart out while riding the Holiday Sing-A-Long Express! Open daily during zoo operating hours, journey through the historic Brackenridge Park and sing along to holiday favorites.
IllumiLIFE: Illuminated Paintings of Wildlife
Guests can expect a NEW extraordinary realm at San Antonio Zoo this season. IllumiLIFE immerses guests in a gallery of dazzling lights and illuminations of wildlife paintings. Explore a museum of beautiful, large, mixed-media illustrations, including the Asian elephant, Sumatran Tiger, Western lowland gorilla, African wild dog, Komodo dragon, and more! IllumiLIFE, produced by artist, Russel Ronat, reveals the beauty and fragility of many species under the threat of extinction, bringing light and life together for an incredible display of wildlife.
Water Wonderland
Become immersed in an underwater adventure as jellyfish, turtles, fish, and a whale, take over the pathway with water effects creating a true water wonderland!
Cowboy’s Peppermint Path
Red and white lights are sprinkled throughout the path covering buildings and trees with a candy cane celebration. Don’t forget to stop by Tinsel Tots located in Riverview Restaurant. The kid-friendly shop designed for little ones, to pick out a present for loved ones with help from our elves!
Starry Safari
Encounter the savanna with life-sized illuminated animals like two NEW 15-foot tall giraffes in Starry Safari and 2 larger than life Elephant displays. See light up monkeys swinging around high above and bright hippos swimming below.
Polar Point
Polar Point will transport you to the Arctic with blue lights and frosty accents. Plus, don’t miss the walkthrough tunnel and giant snowmen along the way!
Fa La La Flamingo
Deck the halls with smiles and laughter while in Fa La La Flamingo. New this year are 36 larger than life light up flamingos! These fun and cheery lights will have you tickled pink.
Lakeside Lightshow
The high-energy Lakeside Light Show is back! A pixel technology combined with a custom soundtrack of Christmas and Latin songs is sure to get you on your feet and dancing!
FAO Schwarz Tony Parker Animal Collection
Retired Spurs point guard and long-time supporter of the zoo, Tony Parker, generously donated his collection of unique plush animals from the famed toy store for Zoo Lights. These larger-than-life lovable animals are located in the Beastro Restaurant and are available for fun and unforgettable selfies!
North Pole
Santa has made his way to the zoo! Share your Christmas list with him and hop on his sleigh for a photo. Walk up or save time in line and book your photo with Santa here.
Camel Trek
Join in a unique and unforgettable experience with camel rides as they stroll among twinkling light displays that have transformed Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot into a holiday Camel Trek. Camel rides are open daily from noon until the zoo closes. Camel rides are $10 per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of admission for Zoo Lights?
- To purchase tickets to Zoo Lights, please click here or become a Member.
Additional costs such as Santa, camels, and s’mores?
- Yes, there are some elements of Zoo Lights that are an additional cost such as a photo with Santa, camel rides, s’mores, and our Project Selva 4D Theater.
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. Please use this link to book your time now.
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 operations.
Festive Eats
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! Please note that some attractions and exhibits will close at 5:00 p.m. Events are subject to change.
*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.
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.
Games & Activities
Visit with Santa, ride the Holiday Express, experience a 4D holiday movie, and enjoy family filled activities, such as, camel rides and the exciting Pick-A-Present tent!
*Additional fees may apply.
Camel Rides
Join in a unique and unforgettable experience with camel rides as they stroll among twinkling light displays that have transformed Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot into a holiday Camel Trek. Camel rides are available during Zoo Operating Hours.
Holiday Sing-A-Long Express
All Aboard! Sing your heart out while riding the Holiday Sing-A-Long Express! Open daily during zoo operating hours, journey through the historic Brackenridge Park and sing along to holiday favorites.
Tinsel Tots
Hey kids, want to give your parents the perfect present? For $20, 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! This kid-friendly shop designed for little ones to pick out a present for their loved ones is located inside Riverview Restaurant.
Visit Santa
Santa has made his way to the zoo! Share your Christmas list with him and hop on his sleigh for a photo. Walk up or save time in line and book your photo with Santa here.
Project Selva 4D Theater
Pick-A-Present
Be sure to stop by the Pick-A-Present holiday tent in between Beastro Resturant and The Great Lawn! Find the present that’s calling your name and receive the magical gift inside. It’s fun for the whole family!
Thank You To Our Sponsors



Zoo Lights Powered by CPS Energy has ended. Please check back in Winter 2023.




REALMS
Holiday Sing-A-Long Express
All Aboard! Sing your heart out while riding the Holiday Sing-A-Long Express! Open daily during zoo operating hours, journey through the historic Brackenridge Park and sing along to holiday favorites.
IllumiLIFE: Illuminated Paintings of Wildlife
Guests can expect a NEW extraordinary realm at San Antonio Zoo this season. IllumiLIFE immerses guests in a gallery of dazzling lights and illuminations of wildlife paintings. Explore a museum of beautiful, large, mixed-media illustrations, including the Asian elephant, Sumatran Tiger, Western lowland gorilla, African wild dog, Komodo dragon, and more! IllumiLIFE, produced by artist, Russel Ronat, reveals the beauty and fragility of many species under the threat of extinction, bringing light and life together for an incredible display of wildlife.
Water Wonderland
Become immersed in an underwater adventure as jellyfish, turtles, fish, and a whale, take over the pathway with water effects creating a true water wonderland!
Cowboy’s Peppermint Path
Red and white lights are sprinkled throughout the path covering buildings and trees with a candy cane celebration. Don’t forget to stop by Tinsel Tots located in Riverview Restaurant. The kid-friendly shop designed for little ones, to pick out a present for loved ones with help from our elves!
Starry Safari
Encounter the savanna with life-sized illuminated animals like two NEW 15-foot tall giraffes in Starry Safari and 2 larger than life Elephant displays. See light up monkeys swinging around high above and bright hippos swimming below.
Polar Point
Polar Point will transport you to the Arctic with blue lights and frosty accents. Plus, don’t miss the walkthrough tunnel and giant snowmen along the way!
Fa La La Flamingo
Deck the halls with smiles and laughter while in Fa La La Flamingo. New this year are 36 larger than life light up flamingos! These fun and cheery lights will have you tickled pink.
Lakeside Lightshow
The high-energy Lakeside Light Show is back! A pixel technology combined with a custom soundtrack of Christmas and Latin songs is sure to get you on your feet and dancing!
FAO Schwarz Tony Parker Animal Collection
Retired Spurs point guard and long-time supporter of the zoo, Tony Parker, generously donated his collection of unique plush animals from the famed toy store for Zoo Lights. These larger-than-life lovable animals are located in the Beastro Restaurant and are available for fun and unforgettable selfies!
North Pole
Santa has made his way to the zoo! Share your Christmas list with him and hop on his sleigh for a photo. Walk up or save time in line and book your photo with Santa here.
Camel Trek
Join in a unique and unforgettable experience with camel rides as they stroll among twinkling light displays that have transformed Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot into a holiday Camel Trek. Camel rides are open daily from noon until the zoo closes. Camel rides are $10 per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of admission for Zoo Lights?
- To purchase tickets to Zoo Lights, please click here or become a Member.
Additional costs such as Santa, camels, and s’mores?
- Yes, there are some elements of Zoo Lights that are an additional cost such as a photo with Santa, camel rides, s’mores, and our Project Selva 4D Theater.
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. Please use this link to book your time now.
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 operations.
Festive Eats
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 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.
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.
Games & Activities
Visit with Santa, ride the Holiday Express, experience a 4D holiday movie, and enjoy family filled activities, such as, camel rides and the exciting Pick-A-Present tent!
*Additional fees may apply.
Camel Rides
Join in a unique and unforgettable experience with camel rides as they stroll among twinkling light displays that have transformed Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot into a holiday Camel Trek. Camel rides are available during Zoo Operating Hours.
Holiday Sing-A-Long Express
All Aboard! Sing your heart out while riding the Holiday Sing-A-Long Express! Open daily during zoo operating hours, journey through the historic Brackenridge Park and sing along to holiday favorites.
Tinsel Tots
Hey kids, want to give your parents the perfect present? For $20, 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! This kid-friendly shop designed for little ones to pick out a present for their loved ones is located inside Riverview Restaurant.
Visit Santa
Santa has made his way to the zoo! Share your Christmas list with him and hop on his sleigh for a photo. Walk up or save time in line and book your photo with Santa here.
Project Selva 4D Theater
Pick-A-Present
Be sure to stop by the Pick-A-Present holiday tent in between Beastro Resturant and The Great Lawn! Find the present that’s calling your name and receive the magical gift inside. It’s fun for the whole family!
Thank You To Our Sponsors



MAKE YOUR ZOO VISIT AN ADVENTURE.
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIPS
Starting as low as $3 per Month
There’s always something new to see at the zoo. Each year is packed with events and exciting additions. This auto-renewing membership gives you a full year of admission to the zoo and more!
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS
Starting at $48 per person
There's always something new to see at the zoo. Each year is packed with events and exciting additions.