Best Christmas Markets

Columbus Zoo Lights 2026

Dates checked 4 Nov 2026

The Columbus Zoo's holiday lights spread millions of LEDs, animated musical light shows over Conservation Lake and seven giant lit animal sculptures across the zoo, with train, boat and carousel rides included. Zoo admission covers it, so you can see the animals by day and stay for the lights.

DatesNovember 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027
Open DaysClosed Thu, Nov 26, Fri, Dec 25
HoursSunday to Thursday 5 pm to 9 pm; Friday and Saturday 5 pm to 10 pm
The zoo itself opens at noon, and a Wildlights ticket covers the day's zoo admission.
TicketsTicket needed. Included with zoo admission: from $34.95 for ages 10 to 59, $27.95 for ages 3 to 9, $32.95 for 60 and over, under 3 free; lower prices for Franklin County residents (2026)
TypeZoo lights
WhereColumbus Zoo and Aquarium, about 15 miles north of downtown Columbus, 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
ParkingParking is $12.

Checked on Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, November 4, 2026. Buy tickets from the organizer's own site.

Where Is Columbus Zoo Lights?

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Questions About Columbus Zoo Lights

When is Columbus Zoo Lights open in 2026?

November 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Closed Thu, Nov 26, Fri, Dec 25. Hours: Sunday to Thursday 5 pm to 9 pm; Friday and Saturday 5 pm to 10 pm.

How much are tickets for Columbus Zoo Lights?

Ticket needed. Included with zoo admission: from $34.95 for ages 10 to 59, $27.95 for ages 3 to 9, $32.95 for 60 and over, under 3 free; lower prices for Franklin County residents (2026). Prices as published by the organizer for 2026.

Is Columbus Zoo Lights a drive-through?

No: it is a zoo lights event that you see on foot.

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