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Experience the magic of a timeless tradition that shines brighter with each season! Bask in the glow of over one million lights, 200+ illuminated animal images, the legendary Big Tree, visits with Santa and endless holiday cheer around every corner.Reservations are required for members and non-members.
DRONE SHOWS ON FRI, NOV. 20, & SAT, NOV. 21✨
Get ready for a dazzling display in the night sky as 400 synchronized drones bring holiday magic to life! Catch the spectacular show Friday at 6 p.m. and Saturday at 7 p.m. Both shows can be viewed near the Amphitheatre and Formal Gardens.
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY ON FRI, NOV. 20🎄
We’re celebrating opening night with the spectacular drone show at approximately 6 p.m., followed by the lighting of our iconic Big Tree to officially kick off the season!
Guests can also enjoy the festivities throughout the Zoo with:
Roaming holiday characters & performers
Visits with Santa
Seasonal treats and cozy fire pits
Caroling by Masterworks Chorale
Ice carving demonstration
Starting at 4 p.m., WTOL will be broadcasting live leading up to the Tree Lighting Ceremony, where our award-winning 85-foot Norway spruce will shine bright once again! The drone show will not be broadcast.
EVENT HOURS☃️
During Lights, the Zoo is open evenings only, starting at 3 p.m.
Mon - Thurs
Open 3 - 8 p.m., Zoo closes at 9 p.m.
Fri - Sun
Open 3 - 9 p.m., Zoo closes at 10 p.m.
Thanksgiving Day
Open 3 - 8 p.m., Zoo closes at 9 p.m.
Christmas Eve
Open 3 - 8 p.m., Zoo closes at 9 p.m.
Christmas Day
Open 3 - 9 p.m., Zoo closes at 10 p.m.
New Year's Eve
Open 3 - 8 p.m., Zoo closes at 9 p.m.
On New Year's Eve, the Zoo will open at 10 a.m. for the ticketed event, Noon Year's Eve. Learn more at https://www.toledozoo.org/events/noon-years-eve
Toledo Zoo is a nominee for USA TODAY 10Best's 2026 Holiday Readers' Choice for Best Zoo Lights! Cast your vote daily at https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/lights-before-christmas-toledo-zoo-toledo-ohio/
For more info, visit https://www.toledozoo.org/events/lights-before-christmas
Please be aware of fake ticket sales. If you see any comments or posts offering tickets for sale, do not engage with them.
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The Toledo Zoo, Toledo, United States
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