Zoo Lights at Palm Beach Zoo

As dusk falls over tropical West Palm Beach, the local zoo grounds transform into a dazzling winter wonderland. Zoo Lights at Palm Beach Zoo is an annual evening event that has become a cherished holiday tradition in the USA, combining millions of eco-friendly lights with the magic of the wild.

The park's main centerpiece is a 24-foot animated Christmas tree that puts on a spectacular light show to the rhythm of holiday tunes every few minutes. Unlike a standard zoo visit, Zoo Lights focuses on visual art and creating a cozy atmosphere, turning familiar paths into glowing labyrinths.

The event takes place in the evenings throughout the winter season (from late November to early January). It is the perfect spot for those who want to feel the Christmas spirit under the palms, strolling through shimmering decorations with a cup of hot chocolate in hand.

To clarify event details or book special tours, you can contact the zoo administration directly. It is recommended to check the current schedule before your visit, as holiday shows are held only on specific dates.

The main pleasure here is a leisurely stroll along specially laid-out paths where every tree and bush is decorated with millions of shimmering LEDs. Be sure to stop by the central plaza to see the choreographed light show: the massive tree literally "dances" in time with Christmas hits, creating an incredible visual effect.

For younger guests and family photo seekers, there are special photo zones where you can meet Santa on certain nights. Although most of the zoo's residents are already asleep at this time, the park's atmosphere—filled with music and warm light—gives a feeling of total immersion in the holiday.

Don't forget to visit the rest areas serving hot cocoa and festive treats. Since the event is very popular, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online—this not only guarantees entry but also helps you save, as prices can vary depending on the chosen date.

The most convenient way to reach the holiday show in West Palm Beach is by car. The zoo is located at 1301 Summit Blvd, and free parking is provided for visitors directly on the complex grounds. The region's major highways, such as I-95, provide quick access from anywhere along the coast.

If you prefer public transport, you can use the Palm Tran bus system, which stops within a few minutes' walk of the entrance. For those arriving from Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), a trip by taxi or via Uber and Lyft services will take only about 15–20 minutes.

During the evening hours when Zoo Lights is running, it is recommended to plan your route with extra time, as holiday traffic in the USA can be quite heavy. Walking is possible from nearby residential neighborhoods, but it is more convenient to arrive from the city center by car or taxi.

The Zoo Lights event became a natural extension of the history of the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society, which was founded back in the 1960s. While the zoo was originally conceived as a conservation center for South Florida wildlife, over time it has evolved into a cultural space where environmental education meets vibrant leisure.

Over the years, the Zoo Lights show has evolved from modest illuminations into a grand project featuring millions of LEDs. The tradition of using exclusively energy-efficient lighting began through partnerships with local energy companies, highlighting the zoo's commitment to environmental protection even during the winter holidays.

For the 2025–2026 season, the program's pride and joy is the 24-foot animated Christmas tree. This high-tech marvel doesn't just decorate the park; it is the center of a complex light performance synchronized with modern and classic Christmas tunes, creating a unique digital spectacle under the open sky.

To stroll leisurely along all the shimmering paths and fully immerse yourself in the winter wonderland atmosphere, most visitors need about 2 to 3 hours. This is plenty of time to see all the light installations, take memorable photos, and see the show at the main tree several times.

If you plan to visit the event with children, it is worth allowing extra time for the interactive zones and a cozy break for hot cocoa. Since Zoo Lights is open from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, it is best to arrive at the opening to enjoy the holiday without rushing.

The Zoo Lights event is held in the evenings, typically from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, on select dates from November 21 to January 4. It is important to remember that these hours differ from the zoo's standard operating schedule, which is daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Since the holiday show is not available every day, we strongly recommend checking the current calendar of dates on the Palm Beach Zoo's official website before planning your trip.

The area around the zoo offers many interesting locations to help make your day in West Palm Beach even more fulfilling. You can combine an evening at Zoo Lights with a daytime visit to science exhibits or active recreation in adventure parks.