The Festival of Lights Cincinnati Zoo is officially returning for the 2025–2026 holiday season, transforming the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Beginning November 20, 2025, and running through January 4, 2026, this beloved event will once again dazzle visitors with millions of twinkling lights, festive displays, and heartwarming holiday experiences for families and friends alike.
A Timeless Holiday Tradition
Now in its 43rd year, the Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo continues to rank among the top holiday light displays in the United States. Each year, the zoo comes alive with more than five million LED lights, illuminating pathways, animal habitats, and special zones that captivate both children and adults. The event has been recognized repeatedly as one of America’s best zoo light shows, and its enduring popularity proves that it’s much more than a local attraction—it’s a cherished part of Cincinnati’s holiday season.
Festival Schedule and Hours
Visitors can enjoy the Festival of Lights from November 20, 2025, through January 4, 2026.
The zoo opens daily at 10 a.m., with light displays beginning around 4 p.m. and continuing until:
- 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday
- 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
During the busiest holiday week (December 21–31), the zoo will extend its closing time to 10 p.m. for all visitors.
Please note that the zoo will be closed on Thanksgiving Day (November 27), Christmas Eve (December 24), and Christmas Day (December 25).
What’s New in 2025
This year’s Festival of Lights brings several exciting new features and upgrades:
- Expanded Light Displays: Over five million energy-efficient LED lights now decorate trees, walkways, and animal exhibits, offering visitors new photo opportunities throughout the zoo.
- Animal Lanterns: Larger-than-life illuminated animal figures add an artistic and educational touch to the celebration.
- Wild Lights Show at Swan Lake: A synchronized light-and-music experience at the heart of the zoo that mesmerizes audiences every evening.
- Fiona’s Fairy Village: A whimsical treasure-hunt area themed after Cincinnati’s famous hippo, Fiona, perfect for young visitors.
- Hot Cocoa and Treat Stations: Warm up with s’mores, roasted nuts, and the zoo’s signature “Hot Hippo” beverage at various snack stops.
- Accessibility Features: The zoo continues to expand sensory-friendly experiences and accessibility resources to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festivities comfortably.
Attractions and Activities
While the lights take center stage, the Festival of Lights Cincinnati Zoo experience offers far more than a visual spectacle. Guests can enjoy:
- The North Polar Express Train: Starting at 2:30 p.m. each day, this festive ride offers a cozy tour through glowing tunnels and light-covered landscapes.
- Santa’s Village: A chance for children to meet Santa Claus and take photos in a charming, winter-themed setting.
- Conservation Carousel: A family favorite, open during festival hours for all ages to enjoy.
- Animal Encounters: Though many outdoor animals head indoors after dusk, several indoor exhibits remain open, including Manatee Springs, Gorilla World, and the Reptile House.
For an extra-special experience, visitors are encouraged to arrive early—spend the day exploring the zoo’s animal habitats, then stay as the lights flicker on for an evening of enchantment.
Tips for a Perfect Visit
- Arrive Early: Visiting before sunset allows you to see the animals and then seamlessly transition into the lights experience.
- Dress Warmly: The event spans both outdoor and indoor areas, and temperatures can dip sharply after dark.
- Visit on Weeknights: Crowds tend to be lighter Monday through Wednesday, making it easier to stroll and take photos.
- Plan Ahead for Parking: On busy weekends, consider arriving an hour early or using nearby parking facilities.
- Capture the Magic: Don’t miss the Rainbow Tunnel of Lights, the illuminated animal sculptures, or the reflections on Swan Lake—all perfect for social media posts or family photo albums.
A Holiday Experience for All Ages
The Festival of Lights Cincinnati Zoo offers something for everyone. Couples love the romantic atmosphere, families enjoy the rides and treats, and children are enchanted by Santa’s Village and Fiona’s Fairy Village. The event also draws travelers from across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, making it a regional highlight of the winter season.
Beyond the beauty of the lights, the festival promotes a deeper message—celebrating wildlife conservation, community, and togetherness. The Cincinnati Zoo uses the event to remind visitors of its mission to protect endangered species and preserve natural habitats, even as it spreads holiday cheer.
Community Impact and Recognition
The Festival of Lights has long been a source of pride for Cincinnati residents. It not only brings joy to the community but also significantly boosts local tourism. Each year, thousands of visitors travel to the city for the event, supporting nearby restaurants, hotels, and shops.
Its continued recognition as one of the nation’s top zoo light festivals has also helped place Cincinnati on the map as a must-visit holiday destination. The event’s combination of artistry, sustainability, and family-friendly programming makes it a standout among similar attractions nationwide.
Plan Your Visit
Tickets to the Festival of Lights are included with regular zoo admission, and Cincinnati Zoo members enjoy free entry. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid lines at the gate. The zoo’s mobile app provides real-time updates, maps, and information about daily events, helping visitors plan their evening efficiently.
Parking is available on-site, though spaces can fill quickly during peak hours. Additional parking areas and shuttle services are offered on select nights. For those seeking a quieter experience, early December weekdays are ideal.
A Cincinnati Tradition That Shines Bright
The Festival of Lights Cincinnati Zoo continues to bring joy and wonder to visitors of all ages. As one of the longest-running and most celebrated holiday light displays in the nation, it captures the true spirit of the season—community, conservation, and the beauty of shared moments under millions of sparkling lights.
If you’ve attended the Festival of Lights before or plan to visit this year, share your favorite part of the experience in the comments below and let others know what makes it special for you!