Christmas at the Zoo

Surround yourself with the magic and beauty of the holiday season as the Indianapolis Zoo hosts annual holiday tradition, Christmas at the Zoo presented by Teachers Cre​dit Union​ and Donatos​, with an extra weekend of fun added this year! The Zoo is open from noon to 9pm Wednesday to Sunday​, with event activities starting at 5pm. Come out early to grab a great parking spot, see some animals and watch as the lights come on to transform the Zoo into a winter ​wonderland.
This just in! In 2015, Christmas at the Zoo ranked in the Top 5 in the nation for zoo light displays by USA Today’s 10 Best.

Dating back to 1967, the Indianapolis Zoo was the first zoo in the United States to hold a holiday lights event, and since then, Christmas at the Zoo has become a favorite for many guests. At every twist and turn you’re sure to enjoy the sparkling twinkle of 100 percent LED light displays that will adorn Zoo grounds, making Christmas at the Zoo a great place to create holiday memories!

A visit to Christmas at the Zoo is unlike any other time of the year as we bring together the best of the holiday season with a “wild” twist! As the sun sets over the White River State Park, enjoy the warm glow of twinkling lights, creating a magical nighttime experience. You’ll find yourself eager to celebrate everything the holidays should be … plus animals! Several of the Zoo’s hardiest will stay up late to enjoy the cooler nights, including seals and sea lions presented by Carrier, walrus, tigers, red panda, brown bears and more! You and your loved ones can sip on hot beverages as you stroll around to see the lights, or enjoy delicious seasonal treats while you sit by our two campfire locations. Plus see all of the animals in our indoor exhibits, including the Deserts Dome, Dolphin Dome, Oceans and the new Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center.