National Zoo Kicks Off Longest-Ever Run of ZooLights on Nov. 23

On Nov. 23, almost two weeks before the First Family lights the National Christmas Tree, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo will brighten the metro area with ZooLights, the popular annual DC event.

Thousands of environmentally friendly LED lights – in the shapes of pandas, snakes, flowers, trees, butterflies, elephants and more – lining the pathways and decorating buildings such as the Small Mammals House, Reptile Discovery Center, Great Apes House, Think Tank and Kids’ Farm – make for a unique and fun experience for the whole family.

Also on display will be entries to the zoo’s “Gin-GRR-Bread Habitat Contest,” with a theme of “A Winter’s Tale on the American Trail. Winners will receive a special behind-the-scenes tour of the American Trail for 10 people. Registration for the contest is open until November 17. Visit the zoo’s website for more information.

ZooLights run for a total of 24 days this year, making it the longest ZooLights in history - November 23, 24 and 30 through December 2, December 7-9, and then daily from December 14 – January 1 (except for December 24, 25 and 31) from 5:00-9:00 p.m.

There is no fee to attend ZooLights, but parking is $9 for FONZ members and $16 for non-members. All proceeds from parking and concessions sold during ZooLights will benefit animal care and conservation.