Calgary Zoo Lights 2025: Dates, Tickets & Complete Guide

As the holiday season approaches, Calgarians eagerly anticipate one of the city's most beloved winter traditions: ZOOLIGHTS at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. This spectacular event transforms the zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring over one million twinkling lights, festive displays, and family-friendly activities that create lasting memories. Here's everything you need to know about Calgary Zoo Lights 2025.

When Is Calgary Zoo Lights 2025?

While the exact 2025 dates haven't been officially announced yet, based on historical patterns, ZOOLIGHTS 2025 is expected to run from mid-November 2025 through early January 2026. In 2024, the event ran from November 15 to January 5, so expect similar timing for 2025.

Anticipated Schedule:

• Dates: Mid-November 2025 – Early January 2026 (likely Nov 14, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026)
• Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM nightly
• Last Entry: 8:30 PM
• Location: Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary

Stay tuned to the Calgary Zoo's official website for the 2025 announcement, which typically arrives in late summer or early fall.

Nearly 30 Years of Holiday Magic in Calgary

A Calgary Tradition Since the 1990s

ZOOLIGHTS has been illuminating Calgary winters for nearly three decades, making it one of the city's longest-running and most cherished holiday events. What started as a simple light display has evolved into an award-winning spectacle that attracts thousands of visitors each season—becoming as essential to Calgary's holiday calendar as the Stampede is to summer.

Supporting Wildlife Conservation

Every ticket purchased supports the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo's crucial wildlife conservation initiatives around the world. So while you're creating magical memories with your family, you're also contributing to global conservation efforts—making your visit even more meaningful.

What to Experience at Calgary Zoo Lights

Over One Million Lights and 250 Displays

Prepare to be dazzled by more than one million lights and nearly 250 illuminated figures transforming the zoo's pathways into a magical winter landscape. From towering light sculptures to intricate animated displays, every corner offers photo-worthy moments and childhood wonder.

New and Returning Installations

Recent years have introduced stunning new areas that are likely to return or evolve for 2025:

The Festive Forest - This enchanting area features playful elves and Santa's Sleigh, creating picture-perfect "Elfie Selfie" opportunities. It's become a guest favourite for its storybook charm.

Lemur Tales - Located at Destination Africa, this display brings leafy lights and whimsical charm to the lemur habitat area.

Aurora Gardens - Inside the Dorothy Harvie Gardens, polar bear-inspired lights create a magical arctic atmosphere.

Savannah Sparkle - Experience the wonders and music of Africa at Exploration Asia through this choreographed display.

The Merry and Bright Tree Trail - A choreographed musical light show surrounding the Camel Habitat that synchronizes lights to festive music.

Interactive Activities for All Ages

Free Ice Skating - Glide across the small but charming skating rink with complimentary skate rentals included in your admission.

Free Carousel Rides - Take a spin on the carousel, a timeless activity that delights children and nostalgic adults alike.

Axe Throwing - Try your hand at this popular Calgary activity with Rival Axe Throwing on site.

African Drumming - Beat rhythms on authentic African drums for an interactive cultural experience.

Fire Pits and Warm Beverages - Gather around cozy fire pits while sipping mulled wine, hot chocolate, spiced rum with eggnog, or Baileys hot chocolate.

Visit Santa at Calgary Zoo Lights

Meet the Most Important Guest

Santa Claus visits ZOOLIGHTS nightly through December 23, making himself available for photos and wish lists in the Santa Experience, presented by Servus Alberta, inside the Skoki Classroom.

Special Members' Hours: Calgary Zoo members enjoy exclusive Santa visits from 5:00-6:00 PM on Monday evenings, offering a quieter experience before the crowds arrive.

Tickets, Pricing & How to Save

General Admission Pricing

While 2025 prices haven't been announced, 2024 pricing provides a helpful guide:

• Adults (16+): $21.95 CAD
• Children (3-15): $14.95 CAD
• Children Under 3: Free
• Parking: $12 CAD per day

Pro Tip: Ticket prices vary by date using dynamic pricing. The further in advance you purchase tickets online, the more you save. Weekend and peak dates typically cost more than weekday visits.

Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS Combo Pass

Maximize your zoo experience with the Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS Combo Ticket. This special pass allows you to:

• Enter the zoo starting at 1:00 PM
• Explore exhibits and visit animals during daylight hours
• Stay through the evening to experience ZOOLIGHTS
• Save money compared to purchasing separate day and evening tickets

It's perfect for animal lovers who want to see both the daytime zoo and evening light spectacular in one unforgettable visit.

Special Event Nights

Snow Globe Experience - Rent a private "Snow Globe" for an exclusive dining moment under the twinkling lights. This separately ticketed experience offers a unique and intimate way to enjoy ZOOLIGHTS.

ZOOLIGHTS and Dinner Combo - Warm up inside Kitamba Café with a meal included in your ticket package.

Zoo Year's Eve (December 31) - Ring in the new year with ZOOLIGHTS as your backdrop, featuring multiple countdowns for families with young children who can't stay up until midnight.

Planning Your Calgary Zoo Lights Visit

How Long Should You Stay?

Plan for approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours to fully experience all that ZOOLIGHTS offers. However, there's no rush—you can stay and enjoy the lights for as long as you like during operating hours.

Getting There and Parking

Address: 210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB

Parking: $12 per day at the zoo (no hourly options)

Free Parking Alternative: Park at Renfrew Off-Leash Dog Park and walk approximately 1 km to the zoo entrance

Public Transit: Take Route #202 of the C-Train for convenient access

Entry: North entrance only during ZOOLIGHTS

What to Bring

• Dress warmly: Calgary December temperatures can dip well below freezing
• Wear layers: You'll be moving between outdoor cold and warm indoor spaces
• Comfortable boots: You'll be walking on potentially icy pathways
• Camera or smartphone: Capture magical family moments
• Patience: Weekends can be busy—weeknights offer shorter lines

Accessibility and Inclusivity

ZOOLIGHTS is stroller-friendly and fully accessible for guests with mobility needs. The zoo also offers:

Sensory Bags - Free rentals for sensory-sensitive guests to improve their experience

Sensory Experience Map - Download in advance to plan your route and avoid overwhelming displays

Signage - Posted warnings before areas with flashing lights

Beyond ZOOLIGHTS: Other Calgary Holiday Events

While at the zoo, consider exploring other Calgary holiday traditions nearby:

Lions Festival of Lights at Confederation Park features spectacular drive-through displays.

Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park offers a historic holiday experience with wagon rides, carolers, and visits with Santa.

Downtown Calgary - Explore the city's holiday decorations, Stephen Avenue Christmas lights, and seasonal shopping after your zoo visit.

Make It a Calgary Holiday Tradition

Whether you're a lifelong Calgarian or new to the city, ZOOLIGHTS at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo represents everything magical about the holiday season. The combination of sparkling lights, free activities, festive treats, and the knowledge that your visit supports global conservation makes this event truly special.

Start planning your 2025 visit now by checking the Calgary Zoo's official website for ticket releases and special event announcements. Purchase tickets early for the best prices and your preferred date. Most importantly, bundle up, bring your loved ones, and prepare to create holiday memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience Calgary's brightest holiday tradition—ZOOLIGHTS awaits!

Verified Information at a Glance

Event: ZOOLIGHTS at Calgary Zoo

Expected 2025 Dates: Mid-November 2025 – Early January 2026 (TBA) (likely Nov 14, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026)

Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Last entry 8:30 PM)

Location: Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB

2024 Ticket Prices (2025 TBA):

• Adults (16+): $21.95 CAD
• Children (3-15): $14.95 CAD
• Under 3: Free
• Parking: $12 CAD

Highlights:

• Over 1 million lights and 250 displays
• Free ice skating and carousel rides
• Axe throwing and African drumming
• Santa visits through December 23
• Fire pits and warm beverages
• Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS combo tickets available

Special Events:

• Snow Globe Experience (separately ticketed)
• Zoo Year's Eve (December 31)
• Members' Monday Santa hours (5-6 PM)

Access: North entrance only, C-Train Route #202, stroller and wheelchair accessible