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Date & Time

November 20, 2025 - January 4, 2026

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PNC Festival of Lights Activities begin at 4pm. Cincinnati Zoo opens at 10am daily.

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

PNC Festival of Lights

The Cincinnati Zoo is shining bright for the 43rd annual PNC Festival of Lights! Come early to see more animals and stay for the lights!

In addition to admiring the beauty of 5 million LED lights, visitors can find the 5 Fiona fairies in Fairyland, take in a blacklight puppet show, marvel at the spectacular Wild Lights on Swan Lake, or snack at one of our seasonal concessions.

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

zebra and giraffe lanterns light up with pink lights behind
DetailsWhat to ExpectNorth Polar ExpressScavenger HuntHappy Zoo Year

November 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026

Zoo Hours during PNC Festival of Lights:

Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 9pm

Friday – Saturday: 10am – 10pm

December 21-31: 10am-10pm

  • The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving (November 27), Christmas Eve (December 24), and Christmas Day (December 25).
  • PNC Festival of Lights is included in Zoo admission. Visit the Zoo early and stay for the lights!
  • North Polar Express Train & Carousel rides begin at 2:30pm
  • Dec. 23rd is the last night to visit with Santa
  • Full costumed characters may not be allowed in the Zoo.

  • Wonder at the 5 million LED lights throughout the Zoo
  • Character visits begin at 4pm
  • Families will enjoy searching for Fiona fairy statues in Fiona’s Fairyland
  • Guests will enjoy the immersive “Under the Sea” area.
  • 65 larger than life Animal Lanterns located throughout the Zoo
  • Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake
  • Meet costume characters beginning at 4pm
    • Please note that adult guests in full character costumes, such as Santa suits, Grinch costumes, etc may not be admitted into the Zoo
  • Ride the North Polar Express Train and Conservation Carousel rides start daily at 2:30pm (additional charges apply)
  • Roast Smore’s at the Smore’s Stations
  • Enjoy freshly roasted nuts and other holiday treats
  • See animals inside multiple indoor heated buildings (details in Bright Tips below)
  • Meet-A-Creature: meet ambassador animals at Manatee Springs, Discovery Forest, and Club House
  • Happy Zoo Year celebration on Dec 31
  • Share your PNC Festival of Lights pictures on social media using #cincyzoopic for a chance to be featured in future Zoo marketing material!

new green electric zoo train going across swan lakeThe North Polar Express Train will be equipped with a longer-than-ever light tunnel to make your ride extra bright! North Polar Express train ride and begins at 2:30pm. (Additional charges apply for non-members)

Sponsored by:

otter holding happy new year hornGuests are invited to ring in the New Year at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. “Party Animals” of all ages invited to celebrate the 16th annual Happy ZOO Year.  This New Years bash will take place at the Zoo on Tuesday, December 31.

Event info

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Bright Tips

These tips will help you maximize your holiday experience!

Zoo Parking

The main Zoo lot is located at 3427 Vine Street. 

2023 PNC Festival Lights Parking Map

Overflow Parking & Electric Vehicle Info

During busy Festival of Lights nights, additional parking lots are opened as needed, so please follow signs and staff directions to one of our overflow options:

  • Vine lot –  3427 Vine St (Open all day)
  • Euclid Lot- 3301 Euclid Ave (Open all day)
  • Dury Lot- 3292 Dury Ave (Overflow)

You can charge your electric vehicle at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden! We have 8 charging ports in our main Vine St. parking lot. The charging stations are provided by Electrada and can be used with FLO or ChargePoint apps, and also appear on Plugshare.


Food Options

The popular Hot Hippo Drink is back! Hot Hippos will be sold at S’mores N’ More, Hot Hippo Headquarters (located across from the train) and Cup + Cone!

new hot hippo mug with purple hot chocolate