NORRISTOWN, Pa. (November 5, 2026) – The holiday season is about to get a whole lot brighter at Elmwood Park Zoo! Wild Lights presented by Danella returns Friday, November 20, transforming the Zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland filled with millions of twinkling lights, illuminated animals, festive entertainment, and unforgettable holiday experiences for the entire family.

But Wild Lights is much more than your traditional walk-through holiday light display.

Running on select evenings through December 30, Wild Lights brings together many of the season’s favorite traditions in one destination. From visiting Santa in his workshop and decorating cookies with Mrs. Claus to meeting the Zoo’s beloved Christmas Cows, enjoying live animal encounters, and singing along with favorite holiday characters, guests can experience an entire evening of holiday fun without ever leaving the Zoo.

“Wild Lights has become such a special holiday tradition for families throughout our region, and we want guests to know that there’s so much more to experience than just the lights,” said Al Zone, CEO of Elmwood Park Zoo. “You can visit Santa, meet our Christmas Cows, enjoy animal encounters, watch live performances, and make an entire evening out of celebrating the season together. Our goal is to create a place where families can experience all their favorite holiday traditions, while making some new memories along the way.”

Throughout the event, guests can explore illuminated pathways, discover larger-than-life animal-themed light displays, enjoy festive food and drinks, and take part in a rotating lineup of entertainment and special activities that make every visit unique.

A Holiday Experience for Everyone

Whether it’s a family’s annual visit with Santa, a festive night out with friends, or a new holiday tradition, Wild Lights offers something for guests of all ages.

Highlights of this year’s Wild Lights include:

> Millions of Holiday Lights: Stroll through the Zoo as dazzling light displays, illuminated animals, and festive decorations transform the grounds into a glowing winter wonderland.

> Santa’s Workshop presented by Atlantis Tile and Marble: Santa Claus will be on hand every evening through December 23, welcoming families into his workshop for holiday wishes and memorable photo opportunities.

> Christmas Cows presented by KeyBank: Meet Scooby and Shaggy, the Zoo’s miniature Highland cows, dressed for the holidays! These special meet-and-greet experiences offer guests an opportunity to get up close with two of the Zoo’s most adorable residents.

> Cookies with Mrs. Claus presented by Bredenbeck’s Bakery: Add a little sweetness to the evening with a special cookie-decorating experience alongside Mrs. Claus, available on select dates.

> Live Animal Encounters: The holiday magic isn’t limited to the lights! Guests can meet some of the Zoo’s animal ambassadors during special evening encounters and learn more about the incredible wildlife that calls Elmwood Park Zoo home.

> Holiday Character Greets and Performances: From Mickey Mouse and the Grinch to Elsa sing-alongs and other familiar favorites, special character appearances and performances will bring additional excitement to select evenings throughout the season.

> Dog-Friendly Sundays presented by Livewell Animal Hospital: Four-legged family members can join the holiday fun on Sunday evenings! Guests are invited to bring their dogs along to experience the festive lights together, with separate dog admission required.

> Live Music and Entertainment presented by TD Bank: Enjoy an ever-changing lineup of live music, holiday performances, and seasonal entertainment throughout the Zoo.

> Festive Food and Drinks: Warm up with hot chocolate, seasonal treats, and delicious refreshments, while adults can enjoy specialty holiday cocktails and beverages at ZooBrew.

> Family-Friendly Attractions: Make the evening even more memorable with rides on the Zoo’s carousel and barrel train, along with additional activities throughout the grounds.

Plan Your Visit to Wild Lights

Wild Lights presented by Danella will operate on select evenings from November 20 through December 30, 2026 from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Pennsylvania.

The Zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Tickets are available online, with discounted admission offered to Elmwood Park Zoo Yearly Members. Children ages two and under receive free admission. Select activities and special experiences require an additional purchase.

Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance and review the entertainment schedule, as character appearances, performances, and select holiday experiences vary by date.

For tickets, the full entertainment schedule, and additional event information, visit www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/wildlights/.

XXX

ABOUT ELMWOOD PARK ZOO
Elmwood Park Zoo, located in Norristown, Pennsylvania, is home to a diverse collection of species from around the world and is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and providing memorable guest experiences. Open year-round, the Zoo offers up-close animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions including the Zoo Brew Beer Garden, a carousel, and seasonal events. Through hands-on learning opportunities and community programming, Elmwood Park Zoo inspires guests of all ages to connect with wildlife and the natural world. For more information, visit www.elmwoodparkzoo.org