Celebrate the Holidays at Houston Zoo
Make Houston Zoo part of your holiday plans! TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights returns November 19, 2026 – January 3, 2027, with glowing wildlife displays, festive experiences and special events throughout the season.
Enjoy a night out with family and friends, sip holiday cocktails, celebrate Christmas Night at the Zoo or discover the animal stories behind this year’s holiday ornaments. Join us this festive season at Houston Zoo.
TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights
Experience one of Houston’s favorite holiday traditions at TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights. This year, we are Lighting the Way for Wildlife. Explore the lights, enjoy festive treats and take in the holiday vibes with family and friends. Zoo Lights is open from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., with last entry at 9:30 p.m.
There are even more reasons to visit during Zoo Lights. Mark your calendar for these special nights and holiday experiences.
Wine Fest
Wine Fest
Friday, November 20, 5:30–10:30 p.m.
Join us for Wine Fest at TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights. Sip your way through wine tastings all evening, get into the holiday spirit with live music, and make memories with your favorite people at our 21+ event.
Fridays for Wildlife
Discover the wildlife stories behind the lights. The first 2,000 guests through the gate each Friday will take home a limited-edition animal-themed ornament celebrating a featured Houston Zoo animal and the conservation work it represents.
Each week highlights a different animal:
- November 20: Lions
- November 27: Elephants
- December 4: Sea lions
- December 11: Giraffes
- December 18: Birds
- December 25: Gorillas
Happy Hour at The Merry Mixer
Thursdays during Zoo Lights until 7:30 p.m.
Make Thursday nights a little merrier with 50% off specialty cocktails at The Merry Mixer (Savannah Cafe) until 7:30 p.m. Sip festive favorites like Grinchmas Punch, Santa Sleigh, Campfire Mule, Elf off the Clock and Mistletoe Margarita while enjoying Zoo Lights.
Zoo Lights HoloSpeX® Glasses Giveaway
On select nights, the first 1,500 guests through the gate will receive free Zoo Lights HoloSpeX® glasses. Put them on to experience the lights in a whole new way.
Giveaway dates: November 19–22, November 26, December 17, December 23 and December 25.
Community Appreciation Week
Houston, join us for Community Appreciation Week! We’re celebrating the people who make our community special with a dedicated Zoo Lights night for seniors, first responders and service members, college students and educators. Each featured guest receives free Zoo Lights admission, with discounted tickets available for accompanying family members.
Celebrate the season with your family and enjoy a night at Zoo Lights!
Senior Night
Monday, December 14
Guests ages 65 and older receive free Zoo Lights admission. Accompanying family members can purchase up to six additional tickets for $19.95 each. Bring a photo ID to receive your free admission.
First Responders & Service Members Night
Tuesday, December 15
First responders and service members receive free Zoo Lights admission. Accompanying family members can purchase up to six additional tickets for $25.95 each. Present your professional ID at the entrance.
College Night
Wednesday, December 16
College students receive free Zoo Lights admission, and accompanying family members can purchase up to six additional tickets for $25.95 each. Present your school ID at the entrance.
Educator Night
Thursday, December 17
Educators receive free Zoo Lights admission. Accompanying family members can purchase up to six additional tickets for $25.95 each. Present your professional ID at the entrance.
CELEBRATE AT THE ZOO
Sensory Night
This evening, guests can expect a smaller Zoo crowd, quieter music, limited flashing lights, and designated quiet areas.
Christmas Night at the Zoo
Friday, December 25 | 5:30–10:30 p.m.
For the first time, the Houston Zoo will open for Zoo Lights on Christmas Day. After the presents are opened and the day’s celebrations wind down, gather your family and keep the holiday glowing with an evening at Zoo Lights.
The first 2,000 guests through the gate will receive a free animal-themed ornament celebrating gorillas as part of Fridays for Wildlife. The first 1,500 guests through the gate will also receive free Zoo Lights HoloSpeX® glasses.
ResZOOlution
December 28–January 2
Keep the holiday season going with ResZOOlution at Houston Zoo.
All-season long: 10% off Membership Gift Certificates
Give a year of Zoo adventures and save 10% on a Houston Zoo membership gift certificate this holiday season! Use code MERRY26 at checkout.
BUY A MEMBERSHIP GIFT CERTIFICATE
Offer excludes Lone Star, Asante and Flock memberships. Terms and conditions apply.
Plan Your Holiday Visit to Houston Zoo
Make plans to experience TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights this holiday season. Check event dates and ticket information before your visit, and get ready for a festive night at Houston Zoo.
