Holidays at Zoo Miami: Dazzling ‘Zoo Lights’ discount for early birds

Some resident “animals” at Zoo Miami get a holiday sprucing up during the attraction's annual Zoo Lights event, which is offered on select nights from November 21 through December 30, 2025. If you buy your tickets before November 20, you can get a discount.

Families and children of all ages are invited to immerse themselves in the 3D experience that includes animal-shaped light displays, with more than 1 million bright and dazzling lights.

(Video courtesy of Zoo Miami)

There will be holiday music throughout the park, at 12400 SW 152nd St., plus animal encounters, appearances by Santa Claus, music, arts and crafts, and a 26-foot-tall LED holiday tree. You can also enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and the Arctic Express train ride for a fee. New for 2025 is the animal presentation Jingle Paws & Santa Claws at the Sami Family Amphitheater.

The daily event hours are 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

(Photo courtesy of Zoo Miami)

Online entry admission through Nov. 20, adults ages 13 and up $19.95; ages 3-12 $17.95, plus tax. There's also a Zoo Lights Miami package that includes admission, S'more and a lighted souvenir cup with drink. After Nov. 20, admission is $21.95 for those 13 and older and $19.95 for children 3-12. Click here to make your purchase.

Public parking is free. 

(Photo courtesy of Zoo Miami)

Theme nights

Aside from all of the magical light displays, there will be special themed nights, in which participants are encouraged to come dressed up. 

• Nov. 21 and 22: Classic Zoo Lights.
• Nov. 28: Let It Glow, with glowing and twinkling gear.
• Nov. 29: Retro Holidays. Throwback to outrageous '80s holiday attire.
• Dec. 5 and 6: Country Christmas.
• Dec. 12 and 13: Zoo-per Hero nights.
• Dec. 19 and 20: Happily Ever After, featuring prices, princesses, knights and magical creatures. 
• Dec. 21 and 22: Pajamas and Ugly Sweaters.
• Dec. 26, 27 and 28: Galactic nights. Dress as your favorite space movie character.
• Dec. 29 and 30: The Final Frost, all-white attire.

Parking is free.

To keep up with latest news, sign up for the daily South Florida on the Cheap newsletter. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

More holiday events