The Larger Than Life Zoo Lights Have Returned To Washington This Winter
By Jessica Wick|Updated on November 17, 2022(Originally published November 12, 2022)
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Jessica Wick
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Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
It’s officially the time of year in Washington where we all must decide whether certain activities are worth braving the cold to enjoy. And if you’ve ever been to ZooLights at Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma, the answer is always yes. This annual tradition is now over 30 years old, and it gets better every time you see it. The gorgeous and artistic lights display is a holiday event that patrons visit year after year. There’s nothing quite like ZooLights Tacoma.
ZooLights is a classic holiday tradition presented by BECU.
The event always kicks off in late November, and your last night to enjoy them is January 2. ZooLights is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The event often sells out so it's recommended that you get your timed entry tickets early online if possible. You don't want to miss this magical celebration of the season.
More than 800,000 lights are used to turn the zoo into a winter wonderland.
The zoo is kept dark other than the lights, so the experience is truly magical. Just like at the Zoo itself, you'll see creatures of all kinds. But this time the octopus, tiger, and seahawk are made of twinkling lights rather than real substance.
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Although some of the displays remain the same, there are always some new additions every year, so you never know what you'll see.
This is not an event you'll want to experience just once. Some patrons love it so much they'll even come multiple times in a season. There's so many displays you'll see new things in them every time you visit.
When you arrive, you'll get a ZooLights Tacoma map, so you can make sure you'll see all your favorite spots. But even if you choose to wander, you're guaranteed to see beautiful and vibrant installations.
From the beautiful Seahawks tree to the illuminated replica of the Tacoma Narrow's Bridge, this is as Pacific Northwest as it gets. ZooLights keeps things hyperlocal which is one of the reasons this is such a unique and special experience.
While the lighting isn't always the best for photos, there are designated selfie stations meant for you to document your experience. Don't worry, Instagram will know you've been at ZooLights!
That being said, you'll get some great photos the entire time you're there. ZooLights occurs in all weather, even the rain! Some say the installation actually looks more beautiful with the shimmering wet sidewalks.
You won't want to miss ZooLights this year. There's so much to do, other than the obvious.
You can check out Santa Under the Sea at the Aquarium, look for Sasquatch, walk through a tunnel of lights, and even meet some adorable groovy goats. That's right, groovy goats. They're wearing festive holiday coats and everything, it's adorable.
The cost of admission for ZooLights varies, but the most expensive price is $15 for adults on the weekends. To really make it a full outing, consider grabbing dinner at the Plaza Cafe or outside food stands where you can snack on soup, pizza, burgers, and drinks.
And it's always worth the price of admission. Whether you're planning a romantic date, looking for some family fun, or taking a scenic solo stroll, ZooLights is the perfect venue.
Are you going to ZooLights this year? You can learn more about the event and get your tickets at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium website. If you’re not located in Washington, what cool light installations do you have in your city? There’s nothing as festive for the holiday season as the chilly night sky lit up with beautiful, colorful lights.
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