Skip to Content
10/4: The Galápagos Islands exhibit will be closing early at 4:30pm for a private event.
Calendar

TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights

‘Tis the season for Houston’s Favorite Holiday Event!

November 18, 2022 - January 8, 2023

BUY TICKETS

Event Details

Houston’s favorite holiday lights experience – TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights – is back at the Houston Zoo! The beautiful Zoo grounds are the perfect setting to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season with friends and family.

TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights
November 18, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Closed on Dec. 7, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day
5:30-10:30 p.m., last entry at 9:30 p.m.

Buy early for the best price! Tickets are available online only. Tickets will NOT be sold on-site at the Zoo.

Members: Save 20% per ticket when you log into the Member Portal to purchase.

Ticket prices are the same for adults and children. Children ages 2 and under are free. Tickets will NOT be available for purchase at the gate. We do not offer refunds or exchanges.

VIEW MAP

Find additional information in our Zoo Lights FAQ section below. 

Holiday Favorites: 

  • Experience the Holiday Grove presented by TXU Energy with animal-themed lanterns and glowing flowers under the great oak trees wrapped in winter lights.
  • Take a photo in front of the towering 33’ tall color-changing holiday tree.
  • Walk under a canopy of glowing flowers and butterflies in the Hanging Pollinator Garden presented by TC Energy as you sip on your hot chocolate.
  • Visit the Coca-Cola Polar Bear display in Flamingo Terrace.
  • And much more!

More Highlights

20% discount admission for military, first responders (firefighters, police, and EMT), and educators throughout Zoo Lights season! Limit up to 5 tickets.

Buy discounted tickets >

Group Tickets
A $2 discount will be applied to group ticket purchases of 20 or more tickets.
Buy group tickets >

NEW This Year: 

  • See even more life-sized animal lanterns throughout the Zoo.
  • Visit the new photo op area featuring ski lift chairs set in a “snowy” winter scene.
  • Stroll through a brand-new, colorful holiday light tunnel sponsored by PNC.
  • The Children’s Zoo plaza transforms into an illuminated, interactive dance floor for all-ages.

Recycle Your Holiday Lights

Help save animals in the wild and recycle your old or broken holiday string lights at the Zoo’s main entrance until January 8, 2023. Since 2016, over 26,400 pounds of holiday lights have been recycled at the Zoo – the weight of approximately 80 adult black bears! Just by attending Zoo Lights, you are helping save animals in the wild.

Zoo Lights FAQ

Will I be able to see animals during TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights?

During Zoo Lights, the main attraction is enjoying our brighter light path and animal-themed displays. Our Zoo animals will be enjoying a full night’s slumber. To see our animals, visit the Houston Zoo during the day. 

Is it timed entry for TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights?

Yes, we have timed entry for TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights. Your reserved time slot is your assigned arrival time. Once you arrive, you are welcome to enjoy Zoo Lights until closing at 10:30 p.m. Please note that Zoo Lights hours are 5:30-10:30 p.m., with last entry at 9:30 p.m.

Is TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights open to the public every day between November 18-January 8?

You can see all available Zoo Lights event dates when you buy your tickets. Please note that Zoo Lights will be closed to the public on the following dates:

Dec. 24 & 25: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Zoo Lights will also be open to the public on Thanksgiving Day.

Do I need to buy a separate ticket for a child?

Children ages two and under are free. You will need to buy a separate ticket for children three and older.

Are there special discounts for Military, First Responders, or Educators?

Military, first responders (firefighters, police, and EMT), and educators are all eligible for 20% off admission throughout the Zoo Lights season, excluding Sip & Sparkle.

BUY DISCOUNTED TICKETS

An ID will be required at entry for discount verification. Limit up to 5 tickets.

Do you offer group ticket reservations?

A $2 discount will be applied to group ticket purchases of 20 or more tickets.

BUY GROUP TICKETS

What food and drink options will be available?

Along the Zoo Lights path, you’ll encounter plenty of yummy holiday treats including hot chocolate and churro fries! Multiple food locations will be available, including Cypress Circle Café during Zoo Lights hours.

S’mores will also be available for purchase on select nights:

  • December 2-4
  • December 9-11
  • December 16-31
  • January 1

 

Where should I park?

Our main entrance is at 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030. The Zoo’s Medical Center entrance will not be open, so be sure to go to the main entrance for entry. The Houston Zoo does not have its own parking lot; free parking lots in Hermann Park are outside the Zoo, but parking can fill up quickly. View more parking options. 

 

Will stroller and scooter rentals be available?

Yes, stroller and scooter rentals will be available during Zoo Lights. Rentals may be paid via credit card only.

What is the suggested attire?

Please remember that you will be outside and walking, so dress appropriately.

Will there be a sensory friendly Zoo Lights night?

Yes, it will be held on Monday, Dec. 5.

learn more

What if I need to cancel prior to the event?

All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.

What is the rain plan?

This event is rain or shine. 

Do I need to print my ticket(s)?

Present the digital ticket on your mobile device to scan for entry. By going paperless, you are helping save local animals, like black bears, in the wild!

Who should I contact if I have any other questions?

If you have any questions, please email group.reservations@houstonzoo.org.

Presenting Sponsor

txu energy logo

Cornerstone Partners

Supporting Partners

Media Partner

Close
Close Gate Map