Holiday season is set to sparkle at ZooLights

A holiday favorite is back and brighter than ever! ZooLights, presented by U.S. Bank, runs through Jan. 4 at the Oregon Zoo with shimmering life-size animal silhouettes, glittering forests of lighted trees and illuminated rides on the zoo train. Tickets are on sale now at oregonzoo.org/lights.

“ZooLights brings the magic of the holidays to life,” said zoo events director Jamie Inglis. “About 90% of the installations are completed by our staff right here at the zoo, which makes it extra special for all of us!”

This year’s festival features returning favorites, installations from local artists and makers, and some exciting new displays. A set of bright panels in the central plaza highlights the zoo’s conservation efforts on behalf of species such as California condors, northwestern pond turtles and Oregon silverspot butterflies. And 30 more luminous creatures — including flamingos, beavers, bears and elephants — join the cast of glowing wildlife lanterns along the train route.

“Plus this year, you can take MAX to ZooLights or BrewLights on us,” Inglis said. “Your admission ticket is also your ‘ticket to ride’ TriMet to and from the zoo on your admission date.”

ZooLights is a special event and is not included with regular daytime admission. Members receive 20% off regularly priced ZooLights tickets. All guests, including members, must reserve tickets in advance.

ZooLights is presented by U.S. Bank with support from iHeartMedia. A s part of Metro, the Oregon Zoo helps make greater Portland a great place to call home. Committed to conservation, the zoo acts globally on behalf of species from pikas to polar bears. Over the past 30 years, it has prevented extinctions, expanded populations, advanced conservation science, and formed powerful communities to protect wildlife in the Northwest and around the world.

To plan your trip, go to www.oregonzoo.org/visit.