Zoo Lights is back, bigger and brighter than ever (Opens Nov. 24th)

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A Northwest holiday tradition returns! Zoo Lights, presented by U.S. Bank, opens Nov. 24, showcasing dazzling life-size animal silhouettes, forests of lighted trees and rides on the light-bedecked zoo train. Tickets are on sale now at oregonzoo.org/lights.

Tickets also are on sale for Brew Lights — a Zoo Lights experience just for the 21-and-over crowd, held Nov. 17–18. Guests can sample a selection of more than 100 local beers, seltzers and ciders from more than 50 Northwest vendors while enjoying live music and strolling among the millions of lights.

This year’s Zoo Lights marks a return to the classic walk-through winter wonderland, a holiday tradition for more than 30 years pre-pandemic. In 2020, the zoo pivoted to a drive-through version — the only way it could host the event under state guidelines that year — and made do with a combination of walk-through and drive-through nights over the following two years.

“We were so glad that we could keep this community tradition alive through the pandemic even if it was a little bit different,” events director Mickey Webb said.

Wheelchairs and electric scooter rentals are available at the zoo gift shop, Webb said, and the zoo has scheduled a special sensory-friendly Zoo Lights for Nov. 20. The event will feature the same stunning light displays, but the music will be softer and flashing lights will be adjusted. Calming rooms also will be available to accommodate children who need to take breaks.

Zoo Lights is a special event and is not included with regular daytime admission. Members receive 20% off regularly priced tickets and may also purchase tickets for a special Nov. 19 preview before the official Zoo Lights opening. All guests, including members must reserve tickets in advance via the zoo website.

For more information, visit https://www.oregonzoo.org/lights