7 Must-See Wonders At Phoenix ZooLights 2025: Your Ultimate Guide To Arizona's Biggest Holiday Display

Get ready to be dazzled. The Phoenix Zoo is once again transforming into a spectacular winter wonderland as ZooLights returns for the 2025-2026 holiday season, promising an experience that is bigger, brighter, and more immersive than ever before. This premier Arizona holiday event features millions of sparkling lights, new high-tech displays, and beloved returning attractions that make it a perfect destination for family fun and festive date nights.

As of today, December 15, 2025, the official dates for the general public run from Wednesday, November 26, 2025, through Friday, January 16, 2026, with the magic unfolding nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned holiday enthusiast, this in-depth guide provides all the crucial, up-to-date details on tickets, parking, and the must-see features to ensure your visit is absolutely unforgettable.

Phoenix ZooLights 2025-2026: Dates, Ticket Pricing, and Essential Logistics

Planning your visit to the Phoenix ZooLights requires knowing the specific dates and securing your tickets early, as this event is one of the most popular in the Valley of the Sun. Tickets are typically purchased for a specific date to help manage crowd sizes.

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Official 2025-2026 Season Dates

• Member Preview Nights: Monday, November 24, and Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
• General Admission Dates: Wednesday, November 26, 2025, through Friday, January 16, 2026.
• Time: Nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m..

Ticket Pricing (Walk-Thru Admission)

For the 2025-2026 season, general admission tickets are priced at $35 per person, while Phoenix Zoo members receive a discount, paying $30 per ticket.

• General Admission: $35.00
• Zoo Member Price: $30.00
• Processing Fee: Note that a $4.95 processing fee is applied per online order, not per ticket, so buying tickets together is recommended.
• Children: Kids aged two and under are free.

It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, as dates can sell out quickly, especially on weekends and nights closer to Christmas and New Year's Eve.

Parking and Location

The Phoenix Zoo is conveniently located in Papago Park at 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, Arizona 85008. One of the best perks of attending ZooLights is the parking situation.

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• Parking Cost: Free parking is available in the main Papago Park parking lot off Galvin Parkway.
• Overflow Parking: On peak nights, additional free overflow parking is often available at the southwest corner of Galvin Parkway and Van Buren.
• Accessibility: The ZooLights path is over two miles long, and the entire route is accessible.

The 7 Must-See Attractions and New Features for 2025

What sets Phoenix ZooLights apart from other holiday displays are the unique, animal-themed light sculptures and immersive shows that utilize the zoo's natural landscape. With over four million twinkling lights transforming the grounds, here are the seven features you absolutely must seek out during your visit:

1. The All-New Lake Lights Show

The centerpiece of the ZooLights experience is the spectacular Lake Lights Show. This year promises an "all-new" production, featuring a choreographed light display set to holiday music that reflects beautifully off the main lake. The show features the tallest floating Christmas tree in North America, making it a truly breathtaking spectacle and a perfect photo opportunity.

2. Jengo the Talking Giraffe’s Return

A beloved tradition, Jengo the Talking Giraffe will be back to greet guests with his witty commentary and holiday cheer. This massive, illuminated giraffe sculpture is an interactive experience that delights children and adults alike, often offering fun facts and festive jokes.

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3. Two Miles of Glimmering Light Paths

The sheer scale of the event is a wonder itself. The path winds through two miles of the zoo, with every tree, bush, and structure draped in over four million LED lights. The immersive nature of walking under a canopy of light truly makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday fairy tale.

4. Sensory Friendly ZooLights Nights

For families with sensory sensitivities, the Phoenix Zoo offers dedicated Sensory Friendly ZooLights nights. These special evenings provide the same dazzling experience but with important modifications, including smaller crowds, reduced flashing lights, and a quieter atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.

5. Mabel's Famous Fables

Keep an eye out for Mabel’s Famous Fables, a charming feature that offers a cozy spot to listen to classic stories. This is an excellent way to take a short break from walking and soak in some traditional holiday storytelling.

6. The Surviving the Holidays Animal Show

Located at the Doornbos Discovery Amphitheater, the "Surviving the Holidays Animal Show" offers a fun and educational break from the lights. This show typically features live animal encounters and is a great way to remember that you are in a zoo, even amidst the festive decorations. Check the schedule for showtimes (often 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.).

7. The SRP Water Conservation Display

The SRP Water Conservation area features a unique light display that blends holiday cheer with an important environmental message. It’s a creative and visually engaging way to highlight the importance of water stewardship in the desert climate of Arizona.

Tips for a Magical and Stress-Free ZooLights Experience

To maximize your enjoyment of this popular event, a little preparation goes a long way. The Phoenix ZooLights is a high-demand attraction, so planning is essential.

Arrive Early: Aim to arrive 15-30 minutes before the 5:30 p.m. opening time, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. This will help you secure a good parking spot and be among the first in line to start your walk before the main crowds arrive.

Dress Warmly: While Phoenix is known for its warm days, the desert nights can get quite chilly, especially during the late hours of November, December, and January. Layers are highly recommended, along with hats and gloves, particularly for children.

Skip the Line: Purchase your tickets online in advance and have them ready on your phone. This will allow you to bypass the ticket window and head straight to the entrance gate.

Food and Beverages: Multiple food and beverage stations are available throughout the park, offering everything from holiday treats like hot cocoa and funnel cakes to full meals. Be prepared for lines at these vendors during peak times.

Allow Enough Time: The entire walk-through takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how often you stop for photos and shows. Plan your evening accordingly to ensure you don't feel rushed.

The Phoenix ZooLights 2025-2026 season is set to be the Valley’s brightest tradition. By securing your tickets early and utilizing this guide, you are guaranteed an evening of holiday magic that will create lasting memories for your family and friends.