ZooLights is coming back to the San Francisco Zoo on Friday, Nov. 6. It's the first time since 2018, and the run lasts through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027. The zoo says the new version has more than 1 million lights across 14 zones. Highlights include glowing 3D animal installations, a “frozen” photo zone, light-up playgrounds and a nighttime look at its extended Dinos Rule! exhibition. NBC Bay Area reported the show also includes a frozen forest, animatronic dinosaurs and nods to San Francisco icons like the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars.
Hours
- Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday: 5:30 to 9 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 5:30 to 10 p.m.
- Monday and Tuesday: closed to the public, used for private events through Dec. 15.
- Last entry is 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Tickets
Adults pay $30 and children 2 to 11 pay $21. Zoo members get $3 off each ticket. ZooLights needs its own ticket; a daytime zoo ticket won't get you in. Reservations aren't required, and each ticket is good for one visit on any date during the run. Tickets are sold online and at the gate, and same-day sales close at 7:45 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8:45 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Regular zoo parking rates apply.
Rain and extras
If weather forces a closure, the zoo says it will decide 24 hours ahead and notify advance ticket holders. Tickets can then be used on another ZooLights night. All rides are open in the evening, and food carts serve hot chocolate, cider, donut holes and pretzels. The zoo is at Sloat Boulevard and the Great Highway.