TOLEDO, OH, November 18, 2024: The Toledo Zoo is thrilled to announce the opening of its highly anticipated 39th annual Lights Before Christmas season presented by KeyBank, beginning with a spectacular tree-lighting on November 22, 2024. This treasured holiday event will once again transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland, captivating guests of all ages with dazzling displays, magical experiences and unforgettable memories.
The tree-lighting ceremony marks the beginning of the six-week ultimate holiday experience, featuring over one million twinkling lights, more than 200 illuminated animal images, our Dancing Northern Lights, sponsored by Cenovus and our 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 presented by KeyBank 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 excited to offer a fresh season of cherished traditions and new delights. 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 our ice slide then cozy at up at our 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, November 23 through December 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 will be open November 22 – December 31, with hours as follows:
Hours of Operation:
During the season, the Zoo will open exclusively for Lights Before Christmas starting at 3 p.m.
Monday – Thursday: 3 – 8 p.m. (Zoo closes at 9 p.m.)
Friday – Sunday: 3 – 9 p.m. (Zoo closes at 10 p.m.)
Thanksgiving Day: 3 – 8 p.m. (Zoo closes at 9 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.)
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.
2024 Toledo Zoo Lights Before Christmas Special Events
Brewdolph Bash
November 21, 21+ Event
Join us for a festive kickoff with exclusive access to the Lights Before Christmas displays, craft beverages and seasonal treats.
toledozoo.org/events/brewdolph-bash
Polar Paws & Santa Claws 5K Run/Walk
December 8
Bundle up and join us for this holiday race through the lights!
toledozoo.org/events/polar-paws
Noon Year’s Eve
December 31
Celebrate the New Year with a family-friendly countdown at noon!
toledozoo.org/events/noon-years-eve
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 our 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 Fri-Sun, weather permitting.
Swanton Model Railroad Club
5 p.m. daily in the Nature’s Neighborhood, closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Included with Zoo admission.
Special ride bundles are available for a discounted rate.
For additional information or to purchase tickets, please visit toledozoo.org/events/lights.
About The Toledo Zoo
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, situated in Toledo, Ohio, proudly holds membership in the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Boasting a diverse collection, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is home to more than 16,000 individual animals spanning 680+ species. Actively engaged in conservation efforts, the Zoo participates in over 80 species survival programs. With a robust community of over 76,500 active membership households, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium welcomes over 1 million visitors annually.