5 Zoo Light Displays to See This Season in Ohio

Our state’s zoos are filled each summer with families eagerly watching animals at play, but the fun doesn't stop when the seasons change. In fact, some of the most dazzling holiday lights in our state are found at our zoos, with colorful shows synched up to music, larger-than-life displays and plenty of cheer to spare. Walk on the wild side this season at these five spots featuring holiday lights and perhaps a chance to spy some animals after dark. 

Wild Winter Lights | Through Dec. 30
Visitors in vehicles and on foot can experience the glow of over 1.5 million lights in the shapes of animals, larger-than-life Christmas bulbs and more at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Guests walking through the zoo can also stop by Santa’s workshop to visit with the jolly old elf, enjoy ice-carving demonstrations and model train displays, and purchase hot cocoa and a treat from Jack Frost Donuts.

Lights Before Christmas | Through Dec. 31
From over 200 illuminated animal displays to two different animated light shows, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium’s Lights Before Christmas has been brightening the holiday season in the Glass City since 1986. Walk among the lights, check out the Winter Village for hot cocoa and roasted s’mores, and pay a visit to the live reindeer in the barn. Be sure to take a trip down the ice slide set up on the slope of the zoo’s historic amphitheater.

PNC Festival of Lights | Through Jan. 5
See your favorite animals in a new light this season at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, where 4 million lights dazzle in the form of 30 lighted displays, an animated light show over Swan Lake and 50 giant animal lanterns that bear likeness of famous residents like hippos Fiona and Tucker. Be sure to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and check out the Madcap Puppet show too.

Wildlights 2024 | Through Jan. 5
This time of year, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is known for Wildlights, its Christmas display featuring 3 million dazzling lights and seasonal family festivities. Take a ride on the train or a spin on the carousel, and then snap a photo with Santa, as well as Rudolph and his friends. Visitors can enjoy three different animated light shows, and perhaps spot indoor animals after dark, including sea otters and manatees.

Wild Lights | Nov. 29-Dec. 30
The Akron Zoo’s Wild Lights is getting an update for the 2024 holiday season. Visitors will be treated to fresh light displays in new colors and patterns synched up to holiday music. Throughout the zoo, visitors can spy active animals, such as the snow leopard and red panda, and snap photos with both Santa Claus and The Grinch while enjoying s’mores and hot cocoa.

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