TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights Tickets On Sale
TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights Tickets Available Oct. 15
‘Tis the season for one of Houston’s most beloved holiday traditions– TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights at Houston Zoo is back! From Nov. 19 to Jan. 3, guests are invited to step into a world where wildlife comes to light. Guests will wander through dazzling animal light displays, explore illuminated oceans and create unforgettable holiday memories while helping Houston Zoo light the way for wildlife. Tickets available at houstonzoo.org.
From glowing forests and festive treats to interactive experiences, Zoo Lights transforms the Zoo into nighttime holiday magic. Visitors will explore immersive displays at Candy Cane Lane, sip hot chocolate by cozy s’mores stations at Campfire Canyon and experience snow in Houston every night in the Frosted Forest. Santa returns to his workshop through Dec. 23 and, for the first time, Houston Zoo will open for Zoo Lights Dec. 25.
New Experiences for 2026:
Fridays for Wildlife | Every Friday through Dec. 25
Discover the wildlife stories behind the lights. The first 2,000 guests will take home a limited-edition animal-themed ornament celebrating a featured Houston Zoo animal and the conservation work it represents.
Wine Fest | Nov. 20
Raise a glass to the holiday season at Wine Fest, a 21+ experience during Zoo Lights. Responsible guests will enjoy unlimited tastings in the dedicated adult-only area.
Open Christmas Night | Dec. 25
After the presents are opened and the celebrations wind down keep the holiday glowing with an evening at Zoo Lights on Christmas Day.
Zoo Lights Premium Experiences | Select Nights
Elevate your Zoo Lights visit into a premium experience. The exclusive tour takes guests behind the Zoo Lights path with special animal sightings along the way.
Choir Performance
School and community choirs are invited to perform a 30 minute-set during Zoo Lights. Interested groups can sign up on houstonzoo.org
A New Look at Holiday Favorites:
Some of the holiday classics are getting a fresh look. Guests will enjoy a safari experience of animal lanterns as they enter Gateway to Wonder and enjoy a picture-perfect photo with 100-year-old oak trees wrapped in dazzling lights under Celestial Flight presented by TXU Energy. Crowd-favorites including Luminous Playground and Dance and Glow are back and brighter than ever. Guests will be enchanted at every turn as they journey through Rainbow Grove presented by H-E-B. Quiet, calming nooks will be available throughout the Zoo Lights path for moments of reflection and relaxation.
TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights is a separately ticketed event held daily from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., with the last entry at 9:30 p.m. The Zoo closes at 4 p.m. and re-opens for Zoo Lights at 5:30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Members receive a 20% discount . For the best price, guests are encouraged to buy early.
Guests are encouraged to make a parking plan before heading to the Zoo. Free parking is available in Hermann Park. Rideshare services and METRORail are recommended. Paid garages are also nearby, including 6400 Fannin.
During the nightly event, animals will settle down for their winter slumber. Guests wishing to see animals are encouraged to visit the Zoo during regular daytime hours.
Lighting the Way for Wildlife
Houston Zoo brings holiday magic to life while keeping conservation in focus. The Zoo uses energy-saving LED lights, which consume 85% less power than incandescent bulbs, helping create a dazzling experience with greater energy efficiency.
Guests can also help wildlife by recycling old or broken holiday lights at the front entrance of the Zoo. To date, the Zoo has recycled more than 26,000 pounds of lights—equal to the weight of two adult Asian elephants!
Specialty Nights
Member Preview Nights – Nov. 17 & 18
Members can enjoy two exclusive member preview nights and see the lights before anyone else at a special price just for Members.
Sensory Inclusive Zoo Lights – Nov. 30
This evening, guests can expect a smaller Zoo crowd, quieter music, limited flashing lights, and designated quiet areas.
Discounts
Members of the military, first responders (firefighters, police and EMT), and educators receive a 10% discount throughout Zoo Lights season. Valid ID required to enter. Limit up to five tickets.
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The Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Established in 1922, today the Zoo is a leading conservation and education nonprofit organization providing care to thousands of animals. All while remaining a cherished destination for fun, family, and inspiration for all of Houston’s diverse communities. The Houston Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. To stay informed about the Houston Zoo, visit www.houstonzoo.org.
