Lights Before Christmas features fan favorites, new experiences

      The Toledo Zoo’s 39th annual Lights Before Christmas season presented by KeyBank, has once again transformed the Zoo into a winter wonderland, captivating guests of all ages with dazzling displays, magical experiences and unforgettable memories.
        The six-week ultimate holiday experience, feature over one million twinkling lights, more than 200 illuminated animal images, Dancing Northern Lights, sponsored by Cenovus, and Main Plaza Dancing Lights, sponsored by Comfort Line LTD – Fiber Frame. Guests will find delicious seasonal treats and warm beverages throughout the Zoo to enjoy as they stroll among the enchanting displays.
        For nearly four decades, Lights Before Christmas has been a cornerstone of the holiday season for generations of families. After securing the title of one of USA TODAY’s Top10 Best Zoo Lights in recent years, the Zoo is offering a fresh season of cherished traditions and new sights. Guests are encouraged to vote for this year’s Lights Before Christmas on 10best.com.
        This year’s event includes the return of the reimagined Winter Village, sponsored by Kroger, in the historic Amphitheatre. Visitors can ride down the ice slide then cozy at up at fire pits with a festive drink from Twinkle Tavern, explore seasonal treasures at Enchanted Gifts and enjoy holiday treats at The Sweet Shoppe. Santa will be available for photos and visits in the Winter Village from 4-8 p.m. daily through Dec. 23.
        “We are proud to bring new interactive elements and maintain beloved favorites in our Lights Before Christmas event,” said Shayla Moriarty, chief operating officer and executive vice president of the Toledo Zoo. “Our goal is to be the ultimate holiday experience for all.”
        The 2024 Toledo Zoo Lights Before Christmas is open through Dec. 31. During the season, the Zoo will open exclusively for Lights Before Christmas starting at 3 p.m. Hours are Monday-Thursday, 3-8 p.m. (Zoo closes at 9 p.m.);
Friday-Sunday, 3-9 p.m. (Zoo closes at 10 p.m.); Christmas Eve, 3-8 p.m. (Zoo closes at 9 p.m.); Christmas Day, 3-8 p.m. (Zoo closes at 9 p.m.) and New Year’s Eve, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (Zoo closes at 9 p.m.)
        Reservations are required for all guests, including members, who receive unlimited visits. Tickets can be purchased online at toledozoo.org/events/lights.
        Rides and activities
        • Ice Slide – $3.50 per ride to fly down on your own personal innertube.
        • Carousel – $3.50 per ride on the indoor African Carousel.
        • Ice Carving Demos – Thursdays in December, 6 p.m. in Main Plaza. Included with Zoo admission.
        • Reindeer Encounter – Get up-close with the Zoo’s resident reindeer in the Nancy L. & Martin Davidson Barnyard, included with Zoo admission.
        • Holly Jolly Express – $3.50 per ride. Holiday train through Africa, available Friday-Sunday, weather permitting.
        • Swanton Model Railroad Club, 5 p.m. daily in the Nature’s Neighborhood, closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Included with Zoo admission. Special ride bundles are available for a discounted rate.
        Special event
        The Zoo will host the Polar Paws & Santa Claws 5K Run/Walk through the light Sunday, Dec. 8. Visit toledozoo.org/events/polar-paws for details.
        For additional information or to purchase tickets, please visit toledozoo.org/events/lights.
 
 
The Toledo Zoo’s 39th annual Lights Before Christmas, presented by KeyBank, features many dazzling, fan favorite displays along with new, interactive experiences. The “electrical spectacle” runs through Dec. 31. (Toledo Zoo photo)