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Thu, Nov. 21: The Zoo will be closing early at 2pm, with last entry at 1pm for Sip & Sparkle.
Zoo News Blog

Plan Your TXU Energy presents
Zoo Lights Visit

Everyone’s favorite holiday season is finally here, TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights! Enjoy our holiday lights experience from November 17, 2023 until January 7, 2024. The Zoo Lights season hours are 5:30-10:30 p.m., with last entry at 9:30 p.m. Check out what you need to know below before your Zoo Lights trip.    

1. Get your tickets early

Get your tickets early for the best price. During the holiday season, ticket prices will be higher on weekends and holidays. Flex pricing allows you to pick a day that fits not only your schedule, but your budget as well!

Buying early also secures your spot. TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights is one of the most popular times at the Zoo and tickets can sell out on busier nights. Make sure to buy your tickets today!   

RESERVE TICKETS

2. Arrive early and plan ahead with your parking options  

During TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights, parking and traffic can get busier than usual around Hermann Park. We recommend exploring other options to get the Zoo while avoiding increased traffic. Grab your crew and carpool or rideshare. 

See Parking Options

3.  Enhance your Zoo visit with holiday treats 

What better way to enjoy the holiday season than adding a s’mores kit or hot chocolate voucher to your visit? You can add on the vouchers when purchasing your TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights tickets online and then redeem when you arrive at Zoo Lights!   

4. Order food ahead or pack your own snacks 

Hungry? There are multiple food and beverage locations available throughout the Zoo serving holiday treats, including churros, s’mores, and more. Outside food, drink, and coolers are allowed, with the exception of alcohol and glass. We have water bottle filling stations throughout the Zoo, so make sure to bring your reusable water bottle!   

If you don’t want to wait in line skip it and order your food online! You can order food online for quick and easy pick-up at Cypress Circle Café.  

PLACE YOUR ORDER

5. Use the Zoo Lights digital map 

Make your TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights visit more interactive with our digital map. Navigate the Zoo Lights path with our interactive map using your smartphone. Once you’re on Zoo grounds, tap on “Share Location” so you can navigate to different areas in the Zoo with ease. It’s a great tool to locate all your favorite photo ops and where to buy seasonal treats.

ZOO LIGHTS MAP

6. Tag us in your Zoo Lights photos  

Enjoy all the holiday-inspired photo-ops across the Zoo! See the brightest and sparkly of lights as you experience TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights.

We also want to see your festive photos! Don’t forget to tag us or use hashtag #houstonzoo for a chance to be featured on our social channels during the holiday season.