ZooLights returns to National Zoo for holiday season

ZooLights returns to the National Zoo for the holiday season

ZooLights is back at the National Zoo for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began. FOX 5's Jacqueline Matter stopped by to check out what the spectacular display has to offer in 2022.

WASHINGTON - The Smithsonian’s National Zoo holiday tradition, ZooLights, returns this holiday season!

The annual event is free for everyone, but attendees are required to get a pass. The colorful display will be open from 5pm to 9 pm on Nov. 25 through Dec. 30th.

Despite, the free entry, attendees will need to pay a flat-rate parking fee of $30. The fee will not be charged on Member Night, Dec. 15th. You can reserve parking here.

Visitors attending ZooLights can expect live music performances, tasty treats, and a chance to complete some of your holiday shopping. All proceeds from concession and parking sales benefit animal care and conservation science at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.

"Environmentally friendly LED lights and dozens of glowing animal lanterns transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland!" according to the National Zoo.

ZooLights curator details new exhibits

FOX 5 checked out the spectacular animal lanterns at ZooLights and caught up with a Pepco spokesman who talked about how the electrical company has sponsored the event for more than a decade.

ZooLights will be wheelchair accessible with free wheelchair and electronic vehicle rentals available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Electronic chairs will cost $25 for members, and $30 for non-members.

Those planning to travel via Metro can catch the Red Line to Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan or Cleveland Park metro stations. The National Zoo’s entrance is located halfway between the two stations and both are a short walk from the zoo. The D.C. Circulator Bus will provide shuttle service from the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan station for those who are not able to walk. The shuttle will operate every 15 minutes during the hours ZooLights is open.

You can catch the lights during the following dates:

Week 1- Nov. 25, 26, 27 | Friday to Sunday

Week 2- Dec. 2, 3, 4 | Friday to Sunday

Week 3- Dec. 9, 10, 11 | Friday to Sunday

Week 4 & 5- Dec. 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 | Friday to Friday

Week 6- Dec. 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 | Monday to Friday

Here's what to expect from ZooLights this year

ZooLights at the National Zoo is back! The fan-favorite event for both locals and tourists returns for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. FOX 5's Jacqueline Matter stopped by to check out the spectacular display.

Click here to learn more about planning a trip to see ZooLights.