I was delighted to preview Dallas Zoo Lights with my nieces and their parents last night and couldn’t wait to tell you about it! Dallas Zoo is all aglow with over 2 million lights and animal-themed art installations for its after-hours holiday event, running now through January 3rd.

If you’re looking for some holiday fun and photos with Santa, Dallas Zoo has you covered! The halls are decked, the fire pits are lit, and Santa is ready to welcome you on his polar bear-driven sleigh.

Holiday Cheer

There are festive photo ops throughout the zoo, from a giant Christmas tree at the entrance, a beautiful blue bridge that will make you feel like you’re walking in a winter wonderland, a giant sparkling ornaments, and more around every corner.

There’s a whole holiday picnic area with several food stands that will make you feel like you stepped into a Hallmark movie! Here you’ll find the holiday igloos, holiday maze, merch, food, and more.

Destination Dinosaurs

We made the trek up to the furthest point of Dallas Zoo because, well, we are dinosaur people and just had to see Destination Dinosaurs lit up! My nieces loved seeing the lights and holiday decor up here. It’s beautifully lit and the t-rex with a wreath around its neck was a huge hit with my littlest niece!

Holiday Igloos

Need a break? Festive Holiday Igloos are available for rent for 90 minutes with sweet and savory add-ons such as charcuterie boards, unlimited hot cocoa, assorted petit fours, crème puffs, mini cheesecakes, and salted caramel brownies – the perfect cozy spot for a snack break!

What is there to eat?

There are several s’mores stations throughout the zoo where you can toast marshmallows at a fire pit. So fun! We ate dinner at a darling picnic area just past the flamingos by the holiday igloos, maze, and red truck photo op. It was such a festive atmosphere for pizza, popcorn, and funnel fries!

Will You See Animals During Zoo Lights?

We only saw flamingos but there is a combo ticket available for those wanting to see animals during the day and Zoo Lights after dark. But of course, there are lots of fabulous animal lanterns throughout the zoo!

How much are tickets?

Tickets for Zoo Lights start at $19, which includes admission from 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm. Combo tickets are also available, which is just Dallas Zoo admission (9 am – 4 pm) + $10 for Zoo Lights. Learn more here.