Annual Zoo Lights event to include Grinch appearances, new animals

Zootah’s sparkling winter tradition is back with new animal-themed displays and appearances by the Grinch. Visitors can see the zoo in a whole new light every Thursday through Saturday, from December into early January—except on Christmas Day.

Key Takeaways:

  • Zootah’s annual Zoo Lights event has officially started
  • New animal-themed displays add fresh excitement to the celebration
  • The Grinch will make special appearances
  • The zoo is open from 4:30-8 p.m. on select evenings
  • Christmas Day is the only closure date during the display period

Holiday Lights at Zootah

Zootah’s annual “Zoo Lights” event has returned, offering a glittering display of animal-themed lights across the zoo grounds. The event, which opened on a Thursday in early December, promises a festive setting for families, friends, and anyone eager to enjoy the holiday season among bright, whimsical installations.

New Animal-Themed Displays

The highlight this year is the fresh array of animal-shaped light sculptures dotting the paths. From paw-print designs to glowing silhouettes of the zoo’s wildlife, visitors can wander through a colorful wonderland that showcases Zootah’s emphasis on education and appreciation for creatures big and small.

Making Room for New Animals

Along with the lights, Zootah has introduced new animals to the public. While complete details on the newest residents are brief, these arrivals add an extra layer of excitement. Watching them settle into their home under the glow of lanterns creates a picture-perfect seasonal scene.

A Grinchy Twist

In a playful holiday twist, the Grinch himself will be making appearances throughout December. As a nod to the mischievous side of the holidays, these cameo visits are designed to delight children and adults alike, adding an element of surprise to an already dazzling setting.

When to Visit

Visitors are welcome from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in December, as well as the first week of January. Zootah is closed on Christmas Day, ensuring staff and animals alike can enjoy a quieter holiday.

Dates and Hours Table

Dates Hours
Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 4:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
First Week of Jan. 4:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
(Closed on Christmas Day)

End your holiday season on a bright note by experiencing the dazzling lights, meeting the newest zoo arrivals, and catching a festive visit from one of the season’s most iconic characters. Zootah’s Zoo Lights continues to be a hallmark of local winter fun, creating traditions and memories under a canopy of colorful brilliance.

More from World

Colorado Buffaloes’ National Recruiting Class Ranking Ahead of Regular Signing Period
Deer Collision Damages Car in Emerald Township
by Crescent-news
15 hours ago
1 min read
Area police reports 2-3-26
Defiance County Eyes AuGlaize Village Revamp
by Crescent-news
15 hours ago
1 min read
Defiance commissioners updated on AuGlaize Village plans, projects
Lakeland Industries Faces Class Action Probe
by The Westerly Sun
18 hours ago
2 mins read
Rosen Law Firm Encourages Lakeland Industries, Inc. Investors to Inquire About Securities Class Action Investigation – LAKE
California's Dangerous Drivers Face Lawmaker Crackdown
by Palo Alto Online
18 hours ago
1 min read
California has a dangerous driver problem. A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to fix that
Amazon Cuts 2,200 Seattle Jobs Amid Global Layoffs
by Romesentinel
21 hours ago
2 mins read
Nearly 2,200 Seattle-area jobs included in latest round of Amazon corporate layoffs
Help Me Help You: Ward 6's New Vision
by Concord Monitor
1 day ago
2 mins read
Letter: Help me help you, Ward 6
Building Justice: Mullins' Rockdale Court Bid
by Rockdalenewtoncitizen
1 day ago
2 mins read
Mullins announces candidacy for Rockdale State Court Judge
Constitutional Grounds for Impeachment
by Concord Monitor
1 day ago
2 mins read
Letter: Time for impeachment
Planned Parenthood drops lawsuit against Trump administration’s Medicaid cuts
U.S. Grid Faces Winter Shortfall Risk
by Wyoming Tribune Eagle
1 day ago
1 min read
U.S. power grid holds up in cold as watchdog issues warning
$16.9M Boost for Pennsylvania Water Safety
by Mychesco
1 day ago
2 mins read
$16.9M PENNVEST Boost Targets PFAS at 9 Wells Serving 16,000 in SE Pa.