Holiday Lights Festival Returns to the Bronx Zoo Starting Nov. 20

The holiday lights display will encompass a larger area of the zoo in order to encompass social distancing.

By Jacqueline Neber September 24, 2020

Parents looking for a safe way to experience holiday magic with the kids might be happy to know the Bronx Zoo is bringing back its holiday lights tradition this year from Nov. 20 through Jan. 10! According to the zoo, the display will encompass a larger area of the zoo and be organized to accommodate social distancing. WCS member preview will be Nov. 17-19 and tickets are now available online. A 30-percent early bird discount will be available for all ticket purchases made before Oct. 4.

Entertainment at this year's Holiday Lights Festival will include holiday music, ice carving, costumed characters, stilt walkers, souvenirs, and seasonal treats (think hot chocolate and s'mores.)

“2020 has been a trying year for all of us and has once again shown the resiliency of New York City and New Yorkers,” said Jim Breheny, Bronx Zoo Director and WCS Executive Vice President for Zoos & Aquarium “The city has always been the center of the holiday universe, and The Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights will help bring a sense of normalcy to the city. The experience is all outdoors and appropriately designed to accommodate social distancing.

All events and activities at the Bronx Zoo this year have been modified to meet all safety guidelines as directed by the State of New York. All guests older than 3 years old will be required to wear masks and all tickets are date-specific and must be purchased in advance. For all of the COVID-19 protocols and information, visit the zoo's Know Before You Go page.

Main Image: Julie Larsen Maher/Wildlife Conservation Society

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