Denver Zoo Lights is back, and it’s brighter than ever. With millions of twinkling bulbs, glowing animal sculptures, and festive vibes that might make even the Grinch crack a smile, this annual tradition transforms the Denver Zoo into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re wrangling kids, dragging your partner out for a date night, or hunting for an Instagram-worthy backdrop, it’s one of the best ways to spend an evening in Denver in December.
Chris and I attended CU Night at Zoo Lights with our daughter, Misha, who is an alumna of the University of Colorado. This exclusive sneak peek for alumni, faculty, staff, and their families happens before the general public opening night. You don’t need a special invite to kick off your Christmas family traditions, though. Just get your tickets early.
Denver Zoo Lights at a Glance
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Zoo Lights isn’t just another Christmas decoration tradition. It’s one of the most magical Denver Christmas events of the season. Since the early ’90s, the zoo has been stringing millions of lights across 80 acres and turning animal habitats into glowing art installations. It’s part tradition, part spectacle, and all holiday cheer.
Love it here? Come back in summer for a Colorado road trip through the mountains.
History of the Event
Inspired by similar events at other zoos around the United States, Denver Zoo employees and a host of volunteers launched Zoo Lights in the early 1990s. The very first event sparkled with about 30,000 lights. That’s a far cry from today’s dazzling millions, which now twinkle against the Denver skyline. It didn’t take long for Zoo Lights to become a staple of Denver’s holiday season.
What Makes It Unique?
If you’re looking for family-friendly Christmas events in Denver, Zoo Lights goes well beyond stringing lights from tree to tree. The display features glowing animal sculptures, tunnels of light, themed installations, and plenty of instagrammable photo spots.
Over the years, the zoo has added more lights and displays, plus extras like ice carving, train rides, a carousel, and festive food and drinks.
Community Impact
Zoo Lights is more than a festive night out. It’s also a major fundraiser that supports the zoo’s conservation and education programs all year long. Celebrating more than 35 years, Zoo Lights remains one of Colorado’s longest-running and most popular holiday light events.
Create Christmas Family Traditions at the Zoo
Forget the endless mall runs and cookie-cutter holiday events. Zoo Lights is where holiday traditions are born. Families return year after year to stroll under glowing tunnels, sip cocoa, and snap that annual photo in front of the giant illuminated giraffe. It’s the kind of tradition that grows with your kids: stroller rides through sparkling paths turn into teen selfies under neon tigers, and eventually, nostalgic nights out with your grown kids.
Dates, Tickets & Tips for Holiday Fun
Zoo Lights twinkles on select nights from late November through early January. As you might imagine, December is the most popular time, as families look for ways to soak up the spirit of the season. My recommendation? Book online early, because tickets sell out quickly. Weeknights are less crowded and weekends are packed, so choose wisely. When we went, there was plenty of free parking in the garage, so driving was easy.
1. When to Visit
December is prime time for Zoo Lights, so pick your date early. For smaller crowds and a more relaxed stroll, aim for a weeknight. Weekends fill up fast. Want even more elbow room? Go in late November or the first few days of January, when the holiday rush hasn’t hit yet or has already passed.
2. How to Get Tickets & Avoid Sellouts
If your holiday plan involves rolling up to the gate and buying tickets on the spot, think again. Zoo Lights uses timed-entry tickets that sell out fast. The smart move? Buy online as soon as tickets go on sale, usually in early November. Denver Zoo members get first dibs a few days before the general public, plus member discounts, so if you’re local, a membership is worth considering.
Bottom line: Don’t procrastinate. Zoo Lights is one holiday tradition where
“last-minute” equals “no lights for you.”
3. Denver Zoo Parking
Denver Zoo parking includes a four-level garage plus several surface lots right next to the zoo. When we went, the garage had plenty of open spaces and we were parked within minutes. Peak weekend nights in December can get busier, so give yourself a little extra time. If you’d rather skip driving altogether, the bus or a rideshare like Uber or Lyft drops you right at the entrance.
4. What If the Weather Is Bad?
Let’s be real. Colorado winters don’t always play nice. If you’ve spent a winter in Colorado, you know snow, wind, or single-digit temps can make Zoo Lights feel less like a magical stroll and more like a survival trek. The good news? Zoo Lights is open rain, snow, or shine, so unless conditions are extreme, the show goes on.
The bad news? The show goes on! If the forecast looks rough, bundle up in layers, grab those hand warmers, and embrace the snowy vibes. Fresh snow actually makes the lights look even more magical, though it can make the paths slippery too.
In rare cases of severe weather, the zoo may close for safety, so check its website or social channels before heading out. Bottom line: bad weather doesn’t cancel the fun. It just means you need to dress like a true Coloradan and roll with it.
Note: Zoo Lights tickets are generally non-refundable and non-exchangeable, even for bad weather, though transfer options may be available.
Insider Tips
Chris, Misha, and I happened to visit the Zoo Lights on a night that was relatively mild for Colorado in December. We still brought our puffy jackets, gloves, and scarves.
5. Dress Code for Colorado Winters
The best way to enjoy Denver Zoo Lights is to bundle up. Colorado nights don’t mess around. Even after a mild day, temperatures drop quickly after dark. Layers, hats, and gloves are a must.
6. Wear Comfortable & Warm Shoes
You’ll be walking across 80 acres of displays, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. If it’s cold or snowy, wear boots with good traction to keep your toes warm and your footing steady on slick paths.
7. Enjoy Food, Drink & Festive Extras
Zoo Lights isn’t just about twinkling bulbs. It’s a full-on holiday experience. As you wander through glowing tunnels and neon giraffe displays, you’ll find plenty of festive bites along the way. Think hot cocoa that warms your hands (and heart), seasonal snacks that make the cold bearable, and sweet treats that keep kids happy between photo ops. The zoo also sprinkles in extras like ice carving, themed nights, and souvenir stands for anyone who wants to take a little sparkle home.
Tips for Taking Pictures at Zoo Lights
Zoo Lights is a photographer’s playground, but night shots can be tricky. Bright bulbs against a pitch-black sky can confuse your camera and leave you with blurry, blown-out pics. A few simple tricks make a big difference, whether you’re shooting on your phone or lugging a full camera bag.
8. Night Photography Tips with Your iPhone
Here are my go-to tips for sharper night shots on your iPhone:
- Use a tripod. A small, portable one tucks easily into a coat pocket.
- No tripod? Brace your phone on a steady surface like a fence post or bench.
- Let Night mode do the work. It turns on automatically in low light, so hold still for the 2–3 seconds it takes to capture the shot.
- Turn off your flash. It washes out the lights and flattens the scene.
- Let the displays light your shot. The glow from the lights is plenty for great photos.
- Edit later. A quick tweak to brightness or warmth makes the lights pop.
Related Post: 25 Brilliant iPhone Travel Photography Tips You’ll Actually Use
9. Photo Ops & Instagram Spots
Zoo Lights is packed with instagrammable photo spots, and some work especially well for group shots. Look for:
- Light tunnels
- Glowing animal sculptures (giraffes, tigers, and elephants are fan favorites)
- Illuminated trees
These iconic Denver Zoo backdrops make for fun family photos
10. Arrive Before Sunset for Photos
Zoo Lights kicks off after the zoo closes for daytime visitors. Hours are typically 4:30 pm – 9:00 pm, but check the zoo’s website for your date, since hours can vary. In December, the sun sets around 4:30 pm in Denver, so arrive right when the gates open. That way you catch blue hour, when the deep blue sky makes the lights glow without turning your photos into a black void.
What to Expect at Zoo Lights
Picture glowing giraffes, neon tigers, and tunnels of light that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday movie montage. Add festive music, sparkling pathways, and trees dripping with lights, and the whole night feels equal parts cozy and glittery. For little ones, it might be their very first wide-eyed experience with twinkling lights.
Beyond the lights, the whole family can ride the zoo train and the carousel. You may even spot a few animals, like elephants and giraffes, though most of the zoo’s residents are already tucked in for the night.
Why Zoo Lights Are Worth It
Denver Zoo Lights is about more than the lights. It’s about tradition. Families, couples, and friends gather here every year to celebrate the season together. It’s festive, budget-friendly compared to many holiday events, and practically guaranteed to leave you humming “Jingle Bells” all the way home.
Zoo Lights Weather Survival Kit
Colorado weather can swing from sunny and mild to snowy and single digits in a single day. Here’s a quick checklist so you’re ready for whatever the night throws at you.
- 🧣 Layers are essential – Wear a warm puffy jacket as your top layer, plus a hat, gloves, and a brightly colored scarf.
- 🥾 Comfy shoes – If snow is in the forecast, you may need something beyond sneakers!
- 🔥 Hand warmers – Bring these pocket‑sized lifesavers.
- ☕ Hot cocoa stops – Duck in for a warm-up break during your adventure.
- 📱 Check zoo updates – Closures are possible in extreme weather, so check the Denver Zoo website for alerts before you go.
- ✨ Snow = extra magic – Embrace the snow for frosty photos.
Find a Fun Place to Stay in Denver in December
Denver has no shortage of great places to stay, from boutique hotels in LoDo to family-friendly options near the zoo and downtown. Whether you’re turning Zoo Lights into a full festive weekend or just staying the night, book early. Hotels fill up fast during the busy holiday season. Traveling with the whole crew? A vacation rental gives everyone more room to spread out.
Make a Weekend of It
Spend the next day tasting your way around the city on a downtown Denver food tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hang all of the Denver Zoo lights?
It takes the zoo several weeks, often starting in early fall, to hang and test the millions of lights that make up Zoo Lights. The process is extensive because the event covers 80 acres with millions of bulbs.
How much are Denver Zoo Lights tickets?
Prices vary by date, with weekends and peak December nights costing more. Kids 2 and under are free. Timed-entry tickets must be purchased online before your visit, and walk-up admission isn’t always available. Check the Denver Zoo website for current pricing.
How much is a Denver Zoo membership?
Memberships range from individual to family levels and include perks like guest passes, early entry, and early access to Zoo Lights tickets. Check the Denver Zoo website for current membership pricing.
Are animals visible during Zoo Lights?
Tigers, giraffes, and elephants may be visible, but most of the animals are tucked in for the night and out of the cold.
Can I bring food or drinks?
No, but plenty of food and drinks are available to buy inside the zoo.
Are strollers allowed?
Yes. The zoo is stroller-friendly, but expect some uphill and downhill walking.
Is Zoo Lights included in Denver Zoo Free Days?
No. Denver Zoo Free Days cover daytime admission only. Zoo Lights is a separate, ticketed evening event, so you’ll need a Zoo Lights ticket even on a free day.
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Lions & Tigers & Lights, Oh My!
Denver Zoo Lights is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Denver during the holidays, but only if you plan ahead. Book your tickets early, dress for Colorado weather, and aim for a weeknight if you want more glow with less chaos.
Whether you’re starting a new family tradition or just hunting for a dazzling backdrop for your holiday selfies, Zoo Lights delivers sparkle, laughter, and plenty of memories. So grab your tickets, bundle up, and let the lights lead the way.
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These lights look so impressive! This would be such a good date night activity.
Looks really pretty. Don’t have anything like that where I live, wish we did. I get my Christmas lights fix reading blog posts 🙂
The lights look magical! Thanks for the tips
This was such a fun and informative read about Denver Zoo Lights in December! I appreciated how clearly you captured the magical atmosphere of the event and all the things that make it a standout holiday experience. From planning tips to what to expect once you’re there, your post really helps families and visitors make the most of their night out.
It’s always great to see how seasonal events like this can turn an ordinary zoo visit into a truly special tradition. Thanks for sharing these helpful insights and inspiring ideas for a festive night under the lights
The Denver Zoo Lights sound like a massive undertaking, and it’s wild to think they’ve grown from 30,000 bulbs to several million. I especially liked the idea of those neon animal sculptures, like the tigers and giraffes. Even though I won’t be making it out there myself this year, your photography tips for night shots were a great addition to the post.
I’ve never experienced a zoo illuminated this way, and I can appreciate how thoughtfully the lights transform the space after dark. It’s interesting to read about the shift in focus the zoo has implemented. Thank you for sharing a different way of experiencing the season.
Great blog post on Denver zoo lights in December! This is the perfect place for families to enjoy this time of he year. Love your night photography tips. 🙂