Tis the season to bundle up, brave the cold and enjoy ZooLights. The Oregon Zoo’s annual light display runs from November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025. This Portland tradition transforms the zoo into an enchanting holiday wonderland. Oregon ZooLights are sure to brighten up the holidays!
For over 30 years ZooLights has been a highlight of the Portland holiday festivities. The 1.5 million lights decorate the zoo grounds, adorning trees and structures with many displays being animal themed, this is the zoo after all. The walk through the zoo is just over a mile so wear comfy shoes and don’t miss the train ride!
Food
In addition to the usual fare of elephant ears, cocoa and sugary treats you’ll find more substantial sandwiches and pizza. In past years we were lucky enough to visit on nights that featured local restaurants. Although ZooLights website doesn’t list the restaurant schedule we were happy to find one of our favorites, Verde Cochina, serving their delicious PNW Mexican fare. Papas Verdes hit the spot! Fingers crossed for another local favorite this year!
Tickets
Purchase your tickets in advance through the Oregon Zoolights website. In addition to the timed entry tickets they’ve added a new ticket called, ZooLights Any Night which allows the user to enjoy the festivities on any night and time throughout the holiday season. Prices range from $13-$35 per person. Discounted tickets are available for low income families as well as 20% discounted tickets to zoo members.
Getting to the Zoo and Parking
Parking is available at pay lots and is on a first come basis. It gets very busy so taking MAX to the Washington Park Trimet station, catching a ride on the free shuttle or being dropped off are ways to avoid the parking hassle.
Tickets do sell out in advance so make sure to check the current status of ticket availability and get more information on transportation on the ZooLights website. If you enjoy ZooLights be sure to see the annual Portland Winter Light Festival which takes place during February. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!
