TOLEDO, Ohio — 'Tis the season for one of the Glass City's favorite annual holiday festivities: The Lights Before Christmas at the Toledo Zoo.
Over one million lights will illuminate the south Toledo location beginning Friday, Nov. 17, kicking off the event that lasts until Dec. 31 and features unique displays, events, foods and drinks. WTOL 11 will have live coverage of the tree-lighting and other festivities on Nov. 17 beginning at 5 p.m.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of this year's Lights Before Christmas.
Hours
Below are the days and hours of Lights Before Christmas. The Zoo remains open an hour after last admission (i.e. if it closes at 8 p.m., visitors who are already admitted can stay until 9 p.m.) With the exception of New Year's Eve, the zoo will not be open prior to 3 p.m. on or after Nov. 17.
Monday - Thursday: 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday - Sunday: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Thanksgiving Day: 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Christmas Eve: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Christmas Day: 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.
New Year's Eve: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Cost
To mitigate crowds, the zoo is asking visitors to make reservations online ahead of time. This includes both members and those purchasing tickets. Click here to make a reservation.
Members: Free, unlimited visits. Must make a reservation.
Adults: $29
Children (2-11) & Seniors (60+): $26
Children under 2: Free
Vote for Toledo Zoo Lights Before Christmas
Does the Toledo Zoo have the best holiday zoo lights in the country? Vote here on USA Today 10 Best.
Events and things to do
Brewdolph Bash - Nov. 16, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Age 21+ event, purchase tickets here.
Polar Paws & Santa Claws 5K - Sunday, Dec. 10, register here.
Visit with Santa - Daily through Dec. 23, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Ice carving demo - Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Main Plaza, included with zoo admission
Reindeer Encounter - Included with zoo admission
Swanton Model Train Railroad Club - Daily in Café except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Included with zoo admission.
Noon Year's Eve - Sunday, Dec. 31 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
PHOTOS: Lights Before Christmas at the Toledo Zoo
Rides
Indoor African Carousel - $3 per ride
Holly Jolly Express train ride - $3 per ride, Friday - Sunday and weather permitting
Ice slide - $3 per ride
Rides bundle
- 4-pass bundle, valid through Dec. 31 - $11
- 7-pass bundle, valid through Dec. 31 - $17
- Unlimited rides, valid on date of purchase - $25
Food and beverages
- Seasonal food and beverage options will be available at zoo concession spots.
- The Yuletide Food & Spirits tent on the historic side of the zoo will feature seasonal dishes and alcohol, including cocktails and beer.
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