Reid Park Zoo will once again transform into a sparkling winter celebration as ZooLights: Holiday Magic, presented by Tucson Electric Power, returns on select evenings in December and January. The annual event features festive light displays, holiday characters, live entertainment and seasonal treats.

Guests can stroll through the zoo with hot cocoa in hand while enjoying illuminated animal sculptures, interactive light installations and a walk-through tunnel of dancing lights. Visitors may also stop by Santa’s station, experience artificial snowfall and enjoy nightly performances.

A new feature this year is a 33-foot color-changing tree synchronized to holiday music, offering a centerpiece photo opportunity. Returning favorites include the giant gingerbread house, kaleidoscopic light tunnels and the light show set to classic holiday songs.

Food and beverages will be available, including dinner options at the Flamingo Grill, snack carts throughout the zoo and beer, wine and spiked hot cocoa for guests 21 and older. Guests may also shop for seasonal souvenirs and gifts at the Discover the Wild Gift Shop.

Proceeds from ZooLights support Reid Park Zoo’s mission to connect people with wildlife and encourage the protection of wild animals and wild places.

ZooLights is an evening fundraising event. Most animals will be off-view in their night habitats. Zoo members receive $2 off admission Tuesdays through Sunday evenings and additional savings on Member Mondays, along with a 10% discount in the gift shop and Flamingo Grill. Discounted group rates are available for parties of 30 or more. Call 520-881-4753 for details.

Community  give-back discount

Guests who donate one of the following items will receive $1 off admission:

Canned food for the Community Food Bank

A new toy for La Frontera

Dog or cat food or toys for Cody’s Friends

Items may also be purchased in the Discover the Wild Gift Shop for donation. Purchases made for donation receive a 10% discount. Local artisans and vendors will offer handmade gifts during special shopping nights, Dec. 6, 19, 20 and 21.

ZooLights Holiday Magic

WHEN: From 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 4-23. Encore Nights, Dec. 26-30, 

Jan. 1-4

WHERE: 3400 E. Zoo Court, Tucson

COST: $14.50 – Adults ages 15-61

$12.50 – Seniors ages 62 and greater

$10.50 – Children ages 2 to 14

FREE for children under 2

Zoo Members receive $2.00 off admission Tuesdays through Sunday evenings and even greater savings during Member Mondays. 

INFO: reidparkzoo.org