TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo
Through Jan 3Nov 19 – Jan 3 · 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM · Nov 19, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027. Nightly 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM (last entry at 9:30 PM). Closed Dec 9 and Dec 24. Open Christmas Day (Dec 25). New Year's Eve closes at 9:30 PM. Timed-entry reservations mandatory.
Houston Zoo6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030 · 3.5 mi approx. from HoustonDirections
All ages (wide paved pathways; fully stroller and wagon accessible; sensory-friendly kits available upon request)
From $22.95Tickets $22.95–$34.95 (dynamic pricing by date); free for infants 2 and under. Zoo members receive 20% discount.
About this adventure
Celebrating its 15th milestone anniversary, TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights transforms Hermann Park's Houston Zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland with millions of eco-friendly LED lights, glowing animal lanterns, and kinetic displays. Families can stroll beneath the iconic, 125-foot twinkling Holiday Light Tunnel, marvel at life-sized illuminated wildlife sculptures including glowing elephants and sea creatures, and watch the spectacular synchronized light show dancing across the canopy of century-old live oaks in the Kathrine G. McGovern Texas Wetlands. Children can visit Santa Claus for holiday photos at his workshop in the Children's Zoo through December 23, roast marshmallows over open fire pits to craft their own gooey s'mores, and sip steaming spiked or regular hot chocolate. A festive glowing holiday carousel, nightly synthetic 'snow' flurries, and interactive light-up dance floors make this an unmissable Houston tradition. All tickets must be reserved online in advance with timed entry; the zoo is closed for the event on Dec 9 and Christmas Eve, but open on Christmas Day.
Similar picks in Houston
- Christmas lights
Under 1 mi awayThu, Nov 26 · 5:30 PM
TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo (Thanksgiving Evening)
The Houston Zoo (Hermann Park)
From $24All ages
Nov21SatChristmas lights4 mi awaySat, Nov 21 · 9:00 AM
Santa at Deck the Trees — City Lights Houston
Alley Theatre
From $30
- Christmas lights
3 mi awayThrough Jan 18
Discovery Green: Green Mountain Energy Ice & Winter Lights
Discovery Green
From $18All ages
Loading organizer reviews…
Questions & tips
Ask other families about this activity or share a tip. Comments don’t count toward the organizer’s rating; for anything official, check with the organizer.
Loading comments…