L.A. Zoo Lights lights up the Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park from November 20, 2026 through January 10, 2027 on select evenings, with the box office open from 5:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. on event nights. For 2026 the zoo says the lantern displays are all new, with larger-than-life illuminated birds, butterflies, insects, flowers, marine creatures and Ice Age animals built around a theme of plants, pollinators and the wonders of nature past and present.
The self-guided walk takes most guests 60 to 90 minutes, which makes it a manageable outing for families with young kids or anyone visiting after a full day. Tickets are timed to the evening you select and the zoo encourages buying ahead through its Buy Early and Save promotion, since general admission starts at $19 and prices can rise closer to the date.
Stats at a Glance
- Venue: Los Angeles Zoo
- City: Los Angeles
- State: California
- Dates: November 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027 (select nights; closed Nov 26, Nov 30, Dec 1, 7, 14-16, 24-25, 31, and Jan 4-7)
- Hours: Box office open 5:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. on event nights
- Tickets: Start at $19; members save up to 50%
- Timed entry: yes
- New for 2026: All new lantern displays themed around plants, pollinators and wildlife past and present
What’s new for 2026
The Los Angeles Zoo describes the 2026 lineup as an entirely new set of lantern displays built around plants, pollinators and the wonders of nature past and present. Expect oversized illuminated birds, butterflies, insects, flowers and marine creatures alongside Ice Age era animals, a shift from the Southeast Asian and African wildlife themes used in the prior season.
The lights and displays
The event transforms select pathways of the zoo into a self-guided lantern walk rather than a light-tunnel format. Illuminated sculptures depict flora and fauna at an oversized scale, and the zoo’s conservation carousel stays open for rides. A separate ice skating rink runs on select nights, and Santa is available for photos on select dates for an added fee, with carolers performing on select evenings. Check the event calendar for which nights include Santa, carolers or the rink.
Tickets, prices and member nights
General admission tickets start at $19, and the zoo’s Buy Early and Save promotion suggests prices climb as nights approach or sell out, so earlier dates and weeknights tend to cost less than weekends and the December holiday stretch. Los Angeles Zoo members save up to 50% off standard pricing. Parking is free. The ice skating rink requires a separate ticket on top of event admission.
Food, drinks and extras
Seasonal food and beverage stands operate throughout the route for guests who want hot cocoa or other winter treats while they walk the lanterns. The conservation carousel and the ice skating rink are available as added experiences, and Santa photo opportunities are offered for an extra fee on select nights.
Tips for your visit
Plan for 60 to 90 minutes to see the full route, and arrive close to your ticketed entry window since admission is timed. Weeknights in late November and early December are typically less crowded than weekends and the stretch between Christmas and New Year’s. Dress warmly, since evenings in Griffith Park get cool even in Southern California, and note the listed closure dates (including Thanksgiving, several days in mid and late December, and the first week of January) before planning a trip. Parking is free, which helps offset the cost of event tickets.
Explore more: every zoo and garden holiday light show for 2026, by state.
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Rub-on sunscreen that fits in a pocket — reapply in the queue without greasy hands on the lap bar.
Folds into its own pocket. Pop it on when the storm rolls in and the rides reopen to short lines.
L.A. Zoo Lights 2026 at the Los Angeles Zoo FAQs
When is L.A. Zoo Lights 2026?
L.A. Zoo Lights runs on select evenings from November 20, 2026 through January 10, 2027, with the box office open 5:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. on event nights. The event is closed on several dates including Thanksgiving, Nov 30, part of mid and late December, and the first week of January, so check the calendar before booking.
How much are L.A. Zoo Lights tickets in 2026?
General admission starts at $19, with pricing that can increase as popular nights approach or sell out. Los Angeles Zoo members save up to 50% off standard ticket prices, and parking is free.
Do you need to buy L.A. Zoo Lights tickets in advance?
Yes, entry is timed to a specific evening, and the zoo promotes a Buy Early and Save option, so booking ahead both secures your preferred night and typically costs less than waiting.
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