ZooLights is back with walk-thru and drive-thru options

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A Northwest holiday tradition is back! ZooLights, presented by U.S. Bank, runs through Jan. 9 at the Oregon Zoo, showcasing a winter wonderland of more than 1.5 million brightly colored lights.

This year, there are two ways to illuminate the season: ZooLights’ traditional walk-through experience makes a much-anticipated return — and the zoo has also set aside a number of midweek evenings for a drive-through experience similar to last year’s.

The drive-through option may better accommodate people with different physical abilities, according to guest services manager Ivan Ratcliff, and it may be a more comfortable choice for some during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Everything’s been adapting to change these past couple of years, and ZooLights is no exception,” Ratcliff said. “We’ve put a lot of measures into place to help make this holiday tradition safe, accessible and fun for everyone.”

To help ensure a safe experience for all, the following measures will be in place during this year’s ZooLights:

Timed ticketing/limited attendance: All guests, including members, must reserve their ZooLights tickets in advance via the zoo website.

Masks/face coverings: Face masks are required for all walk-through guests 5 years and older. Drive-through guests do not need to wear masks while inside their vehicles. Masks are required, however, during check-in and other interactions with ZooLights staff.

Reduced contact: Guests follow a one-way, open-air path; physical distancing reminders are placed throughout the zoo. Most indoor areas will remain closed, and all transactions are cashless.

ZooLights is a special event and is not included with regular daytime admission.

For tickets and additional info, visit oregonzoo.org/zoolights.