Experience ZOOLIGHTS, Calgary’s biggest Christmas lights display, at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo from November 18, 2022 – January 8, 2023 (except November 21, 23, 29; December 1, 25, and 31),
ZOOLIGHTS at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, presented by Olympia Trust Company, is more than a light display; it has experiences and activities for all ages. Check out Dinos in the Dark, capture a kiss in the Tunnel of Light, stroll down Memory Lane, and try ice skating, axe throwing, and drumming. When it’s time to warm up, grab a coffee or cocoa at Kitamba Café, huddle around a fire pit, or explore the ENMAX Conservatory, which is decked out with stunning Nutcracker decorations (makes the perfect family photo spot). If you’ve still got some holiday shopping to do, the Gift Shops are open too. Support the Calgary Zoo while you get a one-of-a-kind gift!
Over 200 light installations (or two million lights!) will put some sparkle in your eyes, and get everyone in the holiday mood. Book ZOOLIGHTS tickets online and dress warm so you can stay a while. We recommend 1.5 – 2 hours to see everything.
Highlights of ZOOLIGHTS
There’s lots to see and do at ZOOLIGHTS. Download the Magical Map before you go, so you don’t miss anything! The Sensory Awareness Icons indicate flashing lights, sounds, and quiet zones so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Some fun things to see and do at ZOOLIGHTS include the following:
- Dinos in the Dark: Visit the Prehistoric Park for the first time during ZOOLIGHTS, hear the dinos roar, and watch the volcano erupt (every 5 minutes).
- Tunnel of Light in the gardens beside the ENMAX Conservatory: The tunnel has lights that change color in time to music, and if you’re lucky, can be changed to your favorite color (red and green, pink, and other colors available)!
- The ENMAX Conservatory: The Conservatory’s Nutcracker-themed decorations are stunning. Take photos in the wintry sleigh or beside trees adorned with tutus and ballet slippers.
- “In Exploration Asia you’ll find a beautiful display we call ‘Wild Lights’ which pays homage to some of the threatened species that the Wilder Institute and the Calgary Zoo are working together to save,” said Alison Archambault, Director of Brand & Engagement.
- The huge light-wrapped tree in front of Kitamba Café is pretty spectacular too.
New at ZOOLIGHTS in 2023
Don’t miss the new “Return to the Wild” story in Prehistoric Park, Forests of Kenya at Destination Africa, Garden of Light in the Dorothy Harvie Gardens, Polar Wonderland at Exploration Asia, and a spoken word/light show experience in the gorilla amphitheatre. For a cozy experience, you can rent a Snow Globe with a food/beverage package. Choose from gourmet cookies and cocoa, mulled wine and cheese, or prosecco and charcuterie.
Things to Do at ZOOLIGHTS
While exploring the grounds and enjoying the lights is definitely the highlight of ZOOLIGHTS, there are also some fun activities at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo:
- Get a photo with Santa at Santa’s Cabin (Karsten Discovery Centre – across from the penguins). Available November 18 – December 23 from 5 pm – 9 pm. Note that 3 Mondays (November 28; December 5 & 12) from 5 pm – 6 pm are reserved for Zoo Members only.
- Ride the Wildlife Carousel: Kids can ride their favorite animal on the wildlife carousel at the West end of the Zoo. 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. daily with the last ride loading at 7:45 p.m. Rides are free this year thanks to Excel Homes!
- Ice skating at the Calgary Hitmen Skating Rink at the Asian Lawn Tent (across from the pandas). Free skate rentals are available courtesy of KidSport Calgary. Daily, last entry at 8:45 pm.
- Try Axe Throwing with Rival Axe Throwing: Ages 8 & up can take 3 free swings. Waivers must be completed in advance. Available Thursday to Sunday at the Asia Lawn, last entry to the queue at 8:45 pm.
- Play the drums at Journey to Wechiau (near Destination Africa)
Hours
ZOOLIGHTS is open November 18, 2022 – January 8, 2023 (except November 21, 23, 29; December 1, 25, and 31) from 5 pm – 9 pm.
Exclusions – The following dates are excluded from regular ZOOLIGHTS admission:
- November 23: Adults Only Night (18+) – this evening requires a separate admission ticket.
- November 21 & 29; December 1: Closed for private events
- December 25: Closed for Christmas
- December 31: Zoo Year’s Eve – this evening requires a separate admission ticket.
Tickets & Pricing
General (16+): $21.95
Child (3-15): $14.95
Under 3: Free
Member pricing: Inspire members receive unlimited free access to ZOOLIGHTS. Engage and all Child members receive a one-time 50% off discount on ZOOLIGHTS tickets.
Get ZOOLIGHTS tickets online from The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. For special events like Zoo Year’s Eve, see Calgary Zoo | Events.
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