A Million Lights, One Magical Experience: Calgary’s ZOOLIGHTS Will Take Your Breath Away!

Published on December 9, 2025

Every winter, as the chilly air settles over Calgary, something magical happens at the Calgary Zoo. The zoo, which is usually home to thousands of animals, transforms into a glowing winter wonderland, offering a stunning light display known as ZOOLIGHTS. It’s a holiday tradition for many families and visitors, and for good reason. The entire zoo is lit up with over a million lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere that’s perfect for both children and adults.

If you’re looking for a fun, festive, and family-friendly way to spend your evening in Calgary this winter, ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo is an experience you won’t want to miss. From sparkling light displays to seasonal treats, this annual event is one of Calgary’s most anticipated celebrations of the season.

What Is ZOOLIGHTS?

ZOOLIGHTS is an annual holiday event held at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, which takes place from mid-November to early January each year. It’s not just another light show – it’s an immersive experience that completely transforms the zoo into a magical place filled with festive lights and decorations. Visitors can stroll through the zoo’s beautiful grounds and enjoy dazzling light displays, themed zones, and holiday activities.

The best part? ZOOLIGHTS is one of the largest winter light festivals in Western Canada, and it’s open to everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to enjoy the spectacle, the event offers something for all ages. It’s a celebration that brings the community together, and it’s entirely focused on spreading holiday cheer.

A Winter Wonderland of Lights

When you visit the Calgary Zoo for ZOOLIGHTS, you’re in for an unforgettable visual treat. Imagine walking through a winter landscape where more than 1 million lights create a festive atmosphere throughout the zoo grounds. From light tunnels to glowing animal figures, the zoo is adorned with breathtaking installations that captivate visitors. Every corner of the zoo is covered in stunning light displays that evoke the holiday spirit in a way that’s impossible to miss.

Themed Light Zones

The event features several themed light zones that make the experience feel even more special. These areas include:

1. The North Pole: A magical spot where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Santa’s workshop. With twinkling lights and cheerful displays, it’s perfect for family photos.
2. Sugar Plum Station: This area brings a sweet, whimsical atmosphere with fairy lights and delicate decorations that transport you to a dreamlike world.
3. Festive Forest: This magical forest is filled with sparkling trees, glowing pathways, and vibrant colours. It’s a peaceful and scenic part of the zoo where you can enjoy the holiday vibes.
4. Luminous Lawn: This area features floating orbs of light and is a favourite spot for visitors who enjoy taking photos.
5. Rocky Mountain Trail: If you love the beauty of the mountains, this light tunnel is perfect for you. It creates an immersive experience with projected mountain views and sparkling lights.

These themed zones are just some of the wonders that await you at ZOOLIGHTS. Every display is carefully designed to evoke the feeling of holiday magic, and the variety of themes ensures there’s something for everyone.

Fun and Activities for the Whole Family

ZOOLIGHTS isn’t just about lights – it’s a full experience that includes fun activities for everyone in the family.

Wildlife Carousel Ride

One of the main attractions is the Wildlife Carousel, which is open every night during ZOOLIGHTS. Kids will love riding on beautifully designed animal-themed horses, and it’s a great way for families to enjoy a traditional carnival experience. It’s a simple, yet magical activity that adds to the festive fun.

Special Winter Experiences

For those seeking something a bit more unique, axe throwing has been introduced for visitors aged 8 and up. On select nights, you can try your hand at this exciting activity with a friendly competition. It’s a great way for older kids and adults to enjoy a bit of adventure amid the holiday lights.

Snow-Globe Dining Experience

If you’re looking for something extra special, you can book a Snow-Globe Dining Experience. These private dining spaces allow you to enjoy a meal surrounded by lights and snow, offering a cozy, intimate experience that’s perfect for romantic evenings or family gatherings. It’s a truly unique way to dine during the holidays.

Food, Drinks, and Warmth

No winter event is complete without delicious seasonal treats. During ZOOLIGHTS, the zoo offers a variety of hot drinks, snacks, and seasonal foods to keep you warm as you explore the lights. Whether it’s a warm cup of hot chocolate or a tasty seasonal snack, you’ll be able to enjoy some comforting treats while taking in the sparkling displays.

There are also warming areas around the zoo where visitors can take a break from the cold and relax before continuing to explore.

Sensory-Friendly Experience

ZOOLIGHTS is a family-friendly event, but the organizers have also taken extra steps to ensure it’s accessible to everyone. For visitors who may have sensory sensitivities, sensory kits are available. These kits include headphones, fidget spinners, and other tools to help make the experience more comfortable. The zoo also provides maps that highlight areas with higher levels of visual or audio stimulation, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the event in a way that suits their needs.

Important Visitor Information

Here are some key details to know if you’re planning to visit ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo:

• Opening Dates: ZOOLIGHTS runs from November 14, 2025 to January 4, 2026, weather permitting.
• Timings: The event is held from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each night, with last entry at 8:30 p.m. The zoo is closed on Christmas Day (December 25).
• Ticketing: ZOOLIGHTS requires a separate ticket from regular zoo admission. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. There are also combo tickets available, which allow you to visit the zoo during the day and then stay for ZOOLIGHTS in the evening.
• Location: The Calgary Zoo is located at 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary.
• Accessibility: The zoo is wheelchair and stroller-friendly. There are designated areas for visitors with mobility issues, and staff are available to assist if necessary.

What’s New in 2025?

Each year, ZOOLIGHTS brings new features and experiences to keep things fresh. For 2025, visitors can expect several new attractions, including more themed zones and interactive experiences like axe throwing. The zoo is always working to improve the event, so returning guests can look forward to new surprises each season.

The Importance of ZOOLIGHTS to Calgary

ZOOLIGHTS is more than just a holiday tradition – it’s a vital part of Calgary’s winter culture. The event brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate the season, creating a sense of community and togetherness. It’s also an opportunity for the zoo to showcase its commitment to conservation, education, and family-friendly fun.

By offering a magical experience that’s affordable and accessible, ZOOLIGHTS makes the holiday season brighter for many Calgarians. For out-of-town visitors, it’s a must-see event that offers a unique blend of nature, lights, and holiday joy.

Supporting Local Communities

The zoo’s dedication to community extends beyond its exhibits. The Calgary Zoo Foundation works to ensure that the zoo continues to be a place of learning, conservation, and enjoyment for future generations. The profits from ZOOLIGHTS support various educational programs and conservation efforts both locally and globally.

Why You Should Attend ZOOLIGHTS This Year

If you’re planning to visit Calgary this winter, ZOOLIGHTS should definitely be on your list of things to do. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a romantic evening, or a festive night out with friends, the zoo offers something for everyone. The combination of million-dollar light displays, interactive activities, and seasonal charm makes it one of the city’s best-loved holiday traditions.

What makes ZOOLIGHTS truly special is its ability to transform the everyday into something extraordinary. From the moment you step through the zoo gates, you’ll be transported to a world of twinkling lights and holiday magic. So, don’t miss out – make sure to visit the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo this holiday season and experience the wonder of ZOOLIGHTS.