Winter in Arizona is a positively magical time of year. From the charming small towns that get decked out in holiday cheer to the unmissable seasonal events, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the holiday spirit. For proof of this, look no further than ZooLights in Arizona. One of the Valley’s most popular light shows seems to get better and better each year. This year, you can look forward to admiring the glow of over four million Christmas lights. How incredible is that? Here’s everything you need to know about ZooLights 2023:

One of the most popular holiday attractions in Arizona, ZooLights will be back and better than ever come November.
Phoenix Zoo
This year's event is scheduled for November 22, 2023 – January 14, 2024.

With millions of lights, mesmerizing animal sculptures, and a lakefront show choreographed to festive tunes, this family-friendly event definitely belongs on your bucket list.
ZooLights offers both drive-through and walk-through Christmas lights displays. Driving is a sure-fire way to stay warm and toasty. From the comfort of your vehicle, you'll take in the dazzling sights and sounds you look forward to every year -- plus several new additions.
Phoenix Zoo
Grab your cruise-through tickets here!
Phoenix Zoo / Facebook
Prefer the classic ZooLights experience? Guests will also be able to walk through enchanting displays, taking the time to admire each and every one.
Phoenix Zoo
Glittering bulbs of all colors, shapes, and sizes adorn every tree along the walkway, making for an enchanting night you won't soon forget. You can grab your walk-through tickets here!

Related Stories

Frolic Through A Field Of 75,000 Sunflowers At Rocker 7 Farm Patch In Arizona

Frolic Through A Field Of 75,000 Sunflowers At Rocker 7 Farm Patch In Arizona

 Enjoy 5,000 Acres Of Fall Fun At Schnepf Farms In Arizona

Enjoy 5,000 Acres Of Fall Fun At Schnepf Farms In Arizona

 The Pumpkin Days And Corn Maze Festival At Tolmachoff Farms In Arizona Is A Classic Fall Tradition

The Pumpkin Days And Corn Maze Festival At Tolmachoff Farms In Arizona Is A Classic Fall Tradition
The Wildlife Lantern Safari features a whopping 66 animals, from primates to polar bears and everything in-between.
Facebook/Phoenix Zoo
Admire some of the most unique animals from all over the globe without ever stepping foot outside the Phoenix Zoo. Other themed sections include the Outer Tropics Trail and Polar Paradise.
It wouldn't be an Arizona Christmas without Saguaros decked out in holiday lights.
Facebook/Phoenix Zoo
Phoenix might not see snow very often, but we have our own traditions that almost make up for the lack of a white Christmas.
Additional perks of the walk-through experience include photos with Santa, a carousel, camel rides, gift shops, and a three-story Christmas tree.
Facebook/Phoenix Zoo
If you choose to cruise, a souvenir photo and select glow items are available for a separate fee. There's festive fun to be had everywhere you look!
Whether you walk or drive, indulge in treats like kettle corn, hot cocoa, and homemade s'mores.
Facebook/Phoenix Zoo
Nothing puts you in the holiday spirit quite like roasting marshmallows over a roaring fire on a chilly autumn or winter night. Additional charges apply for food and beverages.
Phoenix Zoo / Facebook
Curious to see this magical holiday event in action? Check out the brief footage of ZooLights in Arizona, courtesy of the Phoenix Zoo on YouTube:

 

More information about tickets (including the cost) for the walk-through or cruise-through ZooLights, as well as exact dates for both options, are available to purchase through the ZooLights website.

Have you ever been to ZooLights? If you plan on attending this year, will you drive or walk? Let us know in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! And don’t forget to bundle up in some cozy layers before visiting.

Looking for related content? Check out our guide for surviving winter in Arizona!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Winter In Arizona

Beth C. | October 18, 2023

What are some winter trails in Arizona?

Hiking in the winter in Arizona is a great way to explore the landscape without worrying about the crowds. Below you'll find a list of our favorite winter trails in Arizona:

  • South Mountain National Trail (Phoenix)
  • Wind Cave Trail (Mesa)
  • Seven Falls Trail (Tucson)
  • Thumb Butte Trail 33 (Prescott)
  • East Wetlands Interpretive Trail (Yuma)
  • Echo Canyon Trail (Phoenix)
  • Agassiz Peak (Flagstaff)
  • Bell Rock-Courthouse Butte Loop (Sedona)
  • Rim Trail (Grand Canyon National Park)
  • Bill Williams Mountain Trail (Williams)
  • Lava River Tube (Flagstaff)
  • Mogollon Rim Interpretive Trail (Pinetop-Lakeside)
  • Rim Trail (Grand Canyon National Park)

 

You'll agree that hiking in Arizona during the winter is truly magical. To learn more about the trails we've listed above, be sure to check out our full article detailing the very best winter trails in Arizona.

What are some Christmas towns to visit in Arizona?

Arizona may not see the snowfall of other states, but that doesn't mean it doesn't know how to embrace the holidays. For proof of this, look no further than the following list of Christmas towns to visit in Arizona:

  • Flagstaff
  • Glendale
  • Lake Havasu City
  • Mesa
  • Phoenix
  • Prescott
  • Tucson

 

Have you been to any of these fun-filled holiday towns? For more information, check out our full list of the most festive and charming Christmas towns in Arizona.

Related Articles

Explore Arizona

Featured Addresses
Phoenix Zoo, 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA