5 Things We Love About the PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The annual PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the most festive and magical ways to celebrate the holidays in the Cincy Region.  Every year you can marvel at (literally) millions of glittering lights, visit Santa in his North Pole Village, and hang out with your favorite wild zoo creatures. Get bundled up and ready to enjoy this iconic winter event at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, running from *November 20, 2025 - January 4, 2026.  Whether you’re a first-timer or Festival of Lights pro, here are 5 things you don’t want to miss at this year’s PNC Festival of Lights!

* The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving (November 27th), Christmas Eve (December 24th), and Christmas Day (December 25th).

1. Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake

Who doesn't love a synchronized light show? Don't miss the Wild Lights Show at Swan Lake, where you'll get to see a 21-foot-tall tree with thousands of lights dancing to the beat of holiday songs. It truly is a sight to be seen and heard!

Note - The Wild Lights Show at Swan Lake will have a strobing light effect. This show could be disruptive to those with sensitivity to light or those who have epilepsy.

2. Animal lanterns

During the Festival of Lights you can find all of the larger-than-life animal lanterns (over 65 of them in total!) placed throughout the zoo. Some of them (like the Merry Manatee Lanterns) are also included in the special Seek & Find challenge!

You can also search for Fiona fairy statues in Fiona’s Fairyland and take advantage of a 360-degree backdrop photo opp in Fiona’s Freeze Frame.

3. S’mores stations

Hot cocoa! Roasted nuts! Homemade fudge! One of the best parts about winter and the holidays is indulging in those comfort foods of childhood–all of which you can enjoy during PNC Festival of Lights. You can even purchase a s’mores kit and roast marshmallows over an open fire at one of three s'mores stations located throughout the zoo. Yum, I’ll take s’more, please.

Returning this year (and also for purchase at the s'mores stations) will be the popular Hot Hippo Drink! Indulge in this purple white chocolate drink, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles and served in an adorable, collectible souvenir mug. 

4. Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

This is the perfect time of year when cold climate animals like red pandas, snow leopards, and, of course, penguins, really come alive at the zoo! Definitely make it a priority to see these creatures truly in their element. And don’t worry, there are many heated indoor exhibits to warm up in. 

* If you want to see animals outside, the best bet is to arrive before 4 p.m. - come early for the animals and stay late for the lights! The zoo advises that most animals head indoors around 5 p.m. or sooner, so plan accordingly. Indoor exhibits that will be open include: Reptile House, Gorilla World (open every night during Festival of Lights, but not on habitat Mondays & Tuesdays), Night Hunters, Dragons, World of the Insect, Manatee Springs, Jungle Trails West, and Discovery Forest. Wings of the World and Jungle Trails East will be closed.

Throughout your visit you can also listen to special animal chats, where you learn all about different species from zookeepers. 

Meet-A-Creature: Stop by Manatee Springs, Discovery Forest and the Club House to meet ambassador animals up close and personal!

5. North Polar Express Train Ride

What better way to see all the lights and sights throughout the zoo than aboard a classic holiday train? Sit back, relax, and revel in the holiday spirit during a memorable trip on the North Polar Express Train. 

These are just some of the things that make Festival of Lights so special!

You can also enjoy live performances from the Madcap Black-Light Puppet Show and strolling entertainers, ride the carousel, and even experience a special visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Sharing photos of your visit to social media? Use the hashtag #cincyzoopic for a chance to be featured in future marketing material for the zoo. 

* Please note that adult guests in full character costumes, such as Santa suits, Grinch costumes, etc may not be admitted into the Zoo