The Cincinnati Zoo Is Decked Out In Thousands Of Glittering Lights For Your Holiday Enjoyment
By Monica Spencer|Published November 17, 2019
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
We’re quickly approaching the most glittery time of the year. Few things seem to capture the wonder and excitement of the holiday season quite like seeing the city decked out in thousands of twinkling lights. If you’re looking for a family outing where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and admire all those lovely lights, then check out this incredible holiday attraction here in Cincinnati.
Welcome to the Cincinnati Zoo's annual holiday extravaganza, the Festival of Lights!
This event is now in its 37th year and, if you can imagine, is even more festive than ever.
Enjoy a stroll through the chilly grounds illuminated by over three million LED lights, complete with shows, train rides, animal experiences, and a chance to meet the big guy himself, Santa.
The festival has several new experiences this year, including a Northern Lights immersive display and more giant lanterns scattered around the grounds.
And you'll find plenty of classic displays that you may remember from visits in the years past. The long light tunnel, for example, perfectly sets the ambiance for the festival and is great for a quick photo with the family.
If you start to feel hunger pangs or need to warm up, stop by one of the s'mores stations for an ooey, gooey treat, sip on steaming hot chocolate, or just warm up by the fire.
The festival is open each night (with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day), so you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a picture-perfect experience with entire the family.
Aside from the zoo's general admission fee, there is no additional cost to see the lights. The light festivities begin at 5 p.m. daily and run until 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.