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Wildlights returns to the Columbus Zoo

The popular holiday event will start Nov. 18 and run through Jan. 1, 2023.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Wildlights is returning to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

The popular holiday attraction opens to the public on Nov. 18 and runs through Jan. 1, 2023.

Members of the zoo will get the first chance to see all the holiday lights on Nov. 17. The member-only event runs from 5 - 9 p.m. and will coincide with a food drive benefitting Mid-Ohio Food Collective.

The event will feature millions of lights, train rides, Santa Claus, camel rides and many more attractions.

This marks the 34th year the zoo will transform the park into a twinkling display.

List of attractions:

  • Sparking Spruce: Light and sound show
  • Holiday Magic: Animated light display
  • Sounds of the Season: Choral, bands and other musical groups from schools perform
  • S’mores Experience: Roast marshmallows around a glowing fire
  • Jolliest of Holidays Craft Beer Celebration: More than 40 craft beers, ciders and seltzers available
  • 12 Days of Wildlights Train Ride: Sing along aboard a magical train ride
  • Reindeer Corral: Visit Santa's reindeer team
  • Santa Experience: Speak and take a photo with Santa
  • Jingle Jam: Shores Play Park is illuminated while seasonal music plays 

Animal viewings:

  • Sea Lions of Adventure Cove viewing tunnel
  • Jack Hanna's Animal Encounters Village of Adventure Cove
  • Naomi Coyle Dempsey Quest for Enlightenment Interpretive Center
  • Pachyderm Building
  • Discovery Reef
  • Manatee Coast
  • Reptile Building

Wildlight Hours:

  • Sunday - Thursday: 5 - 9 p.m. 
  • Friday, Saturday: 5 - 10 p.m.

Wildlights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The zoo said the times and attractions could change without notice. To learn more about the events, click here.

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