WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens Thanksgiving Opening (Palm Desert)
Through Nov 29Nov 25 – Nov 29 · 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM · Thanksgiving Week Opening: Wednesday, November 25, Friday, Nov 27, Saturday, Nov 28, and Sunday, Nov 29, 2026; Open 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (Closed Thanksgiving night)
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260 · 60.9 mi approx. from RiversideDirections
All ages; wide paved pathways ideal for strollers and wheelchairs; s'mores roasting stations for kids
From $16$16 for adults; $12 for children ages 3–12; free for children under 3; s'mores kits available for purchase
About this adventure
WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert opens for Thanksgiving week, transforming the botanical garden and zoo into an illuminated wonderland with over three million sparkling lights. Families explore pathways adorned with life-sized glowing animal lanterns including giraffes, cheetahs, and rhinos. The experience features a 30-foot decorated Christmas tree, a model train display boasting more than 3,300 feet of track winding through miniature villages, and open-air fire pits where kids can roast s'mores. Stroller-friendly paved routes throughout the park make it ideal for toddlers and grandparents alike.
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