Experience the magic of the Detroit Zoo in winter as you take in the sights and sounds of the season. Wild Lights is an event for all ages!
This one-of-a-kind experience runs from Nov. 19, 2022, to Jan. 8, 2023, on select weeknights and most Sundays from 5 to 9 p.m. Most Fridays and Saturdays, the event will take place from 5 to 10:30 p.m.
Plan your visit today to find out why Wild Lights is our most extraordinary event of the year.
This is an outdoor event and limited to the front half of the Zoo. There will be no access to animal habitats during your Wild Lights experience. Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Member discounts do not apply to this event. Wild Lights is hosted in rain, snow or shine.
35 MAGICAL NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
Wild Lights, the Detroit Zoo’s annual holiday light display presented by Strategic Staffing Solutions, receives glowing reviews each year by visitors who have made it a holiday tradition. Guests will enjoy masterfully designed light displays and festive vignettes featuring millions of twinkling LED lights illuminating buildings, trees, sculptures and a walk-through light tunnel!
Included with admission.
ENCHANTED TRAIL
New this year — Stroll through an immersive forest of lights while listening to the sounds of the season! This trail experience is filled with holiday magic celebrating the beauty of nature. It is sure to put you in the festive spirit!
Included with admission.
TOYLAND AND WISHING TREE
Immerse yourself in this childhood wonderland featuring life-sized toy sculptures of light. Highlights include a 40-foot-long train, which serves as the perfect photo op for family and friends. Don’t forget to make your holiday wish at the wishing tree!
Included with admission.
POLAR EXPRESS 4D THEATER EXPERIENCE
You’re invited on an extraordinary adventure to the North Pole this holiday season on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the SimEx-Iwerks 4D Version of the Holiday Classic!
THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s22)”
Additional fee applies.
WILD LIGHTS LODGE
New this year — Warm up inside this festive oasis filled with holiday décor, live entertainment, bar service, s’mores and more!
Included with admission
Wildlife Photographer of the Year, a world-renowned exhibition developed and produced by the Natural History Museum in London, will make its U.S. debut during the opening night of Wild Lights. The exhibition features exceptional images that capture fascinating animal behavior, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world.
Included with admission.
SEASONAL TREATS AND EATS
Get your fill on the tastes of the season! Hot cocoa, warm pretzels, kettle corn and other festive favorites will be available for purchase during Wild Lights. Don’t forget your souvenir hot cocoa cup sure to keep you warm throughout the event.
Additional fees apply.
POLAR PATIO EXPERIENCE
Back by popular demand, the Polar Patio ticket package, sponsored by Key Bank, offers a private, all-you-can-eat food and dessert dining experience inside Table 28, hot cocoa in a souvenir cup and a cash bar.
Additional fee applies.
Ticket Packages:
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NEW! Brilliant Bundle Package
Best value, save $16/ personEnjoy the Zoo during the day and stay to see the magic of Wild Lights come to life! Includes admission to the Zoo starting at 2 p.m., hot cocoa “Happy Hour” to watch the lights come to life, admission to Wild Lights, access to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year art exhibition and a hot cocoa souvenir cup.
PRICE: $35
Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Member discounts do not apply to this event.
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Wild Lights Total Experience Package
Save $12/ personIncludes admission to Wild Lights, access to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year art exhibition, exclusive access to the Polar Patio, a hot cocoa souvenir cup and a FAST PASS admission ticket to the Polar Express 4D Theater Experience.
PRICE: $65
Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Member discounts do not apply to this event.
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Polar Patio Package
Buy early and save, $45 at gateIncludes admission toWild Lights, access to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year art exhibition, exclusive entry to the Polar Patio and a hot cocoa souvenir cup.
PRICE RANGE: $32.00 – $43.00
Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Member discounts do not apply to this event.
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4D Theatre Package
Buy early and save, $32 at gateIncludes admission to Wild Lights, access to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year art exhibition and an admission ticket to the Polar Express 4D Theater experience.*
PRICE RANGE: $23.00 – $30.00
Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Member discounts do not apply to this event.
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General Admission
Buy early and save, $25 at gateIncludes admission to Wild Lights and access to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year art exhibition.
PRICE RANGE: $17.00 – $24.00
Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Member discounts do not apply to this event.
*The Polar Express 4D Theatre experience is a short film feature. Ticket holders can check-in to view the film at any time during their visit. Limited seating capacities in the theatre may result in wait times.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, the event capacity of Wild Lights has been limited. For the best value, tickets should be purchased in advance online or at the Detroit Zoo during daytime hours. A limited number of walk-up tickets will be sold at the gate.
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo is an outdoor event and limited to the front half of the Zoo. There will be no access to animal habitats during your Wild Lights experience.Children younger than 2 are free.Member discounts do not apply to this event. Wild Lights is hosted in rain, snow or shine. Please come dressed for the weather!