Visiting the Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo is one of our favorite holiday traditions. With more than three millions lights, the zoo is transformed into a truly magical holiday display each evening. When you enter the zoo, Conservation Lake is brightly lit with an animated light show set to holiday music that runs every 30 minutes. It’s a favorite for guests of all ages so make sure you find a place to enjoy the show during your visit. As you proceed to the habitat areas you’ll notice that each region of the zoo has it’s own unique color themes and overall feel, allowing you and your family to experience a variety of light displays as you walk the property.
Additionally, there are some special attractions that really make the zoo a must-see this holiday season. Our favorite sight this year was the Sparkling Spruce, located in Adventure Cove. This 42-foot LED-powered tree features a light show set to festive music. The kids found this display to be absolutely mesmerizing, while the adults soaked in the holiday cheer from this upbeat display.
Following our times at the Sparkling Spruce, we made our way to the Santa Experience at Polar Frontier. Located in the North America Region, guests can speak with Santa in a lovely North Pole themed workshop at no cost. The experience includes a socially-distanced visit with Santa while a professional photographer snaps a few photos that can be purchased for an additional fee. Reservations are required and spots are limited, so I highly recommend making your securing your time slot early. This experience runs through December 23, 2020.
New to Wildlights this year is the S’mores Experience. This add-on activity allows guests to gather around a cozy fire to roast marshmallows and assemble their own delicious s’more. Seating is available for you and your family to enjoy your dessert while taking in the light display around Conservation Lake. Tickets are $3.99 per person and advanced purchase is strongly encouraged as space is limited.
If you are planning to visit the Columbus Zoo Wildlights this year there are a few policies in place for the 2020 season. Ahead of your visit, you should purchase your tickets online and reserve your entry time. Reservations are also required for zoo members for entry times after 3:00pm, so be sure to plan accordingly. We always find that weekdays are less crowded so if it works with your family’s schedule, I highly recommend a mid-week visit. Additionally, masks are required throughout the zoo for guests ages 10 and older. Wildlights run until January 3, 2021 so there is still plenty of time to enjoy this spectacular event.
Columbus Zoo | 4850 Powell Road | Powell, OH 43065
