Wild Winter Lights Transforms Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Into a Festive Wonderland

Wild Winter Lights at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo shines brighter than ever with over 1.5 million lights. Here's how to make your holidays magic in CLE.

Cleveland’s holiday scene is about to glow up—literally. Wild Winter Lights at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo returns November 18, promising over 1.5 million lights, festive eats, and sparkling, family-friendly energy. If you like your December nights with a side of twinkle and a dash of gingerbread, this is your ticket to winter joy right in CLE.

What’s New (and Returning) for 2026

This beloved tradition isn’t coasting: Wild Winter Lights offers fresh displays for 2026, alongside fan favorites. Walk (or drive!) the illuminated paths to gawk at:

The mesmerizing Twinkly Trail
Cosmic vibes at the Glittering Galaxy
Storybook magic in Winter Fairytale
Sugar-rush visuals at Gingerbread Lane
Animal-themed adventure on the Future for Wildlife Trail
And don’t miss Santa making spirits bright inside the North Pole Lodge

Drive-Through or Walk-Through: You Decide

Good news for those who think Cleveland winter nights are best enjoyed with heated seats: the zoo’s Drive-Through nights are back. Stay toasty in your car while you snake through the displays—ideal for little ones, date night, or just keeping snow boots in the closet. Or, choose the classic walk-through for all the selfie ops you can handle and snack stations to keep you merry.

Walk-Through: Select evenings, 5–9 p.m.
Drive-Through: Select nights only, same hours

Where to Snack and Sip

While you’re soaking in the sparkle, keep your hands warm and your heart happy with classic holiday eats:

Hot cocoa and marshmallows, a must for any true Clevelander
Seasonal snacks and festival treats from local vendors
Comfort food classics for the whole family

Expect food carts and pop-up stands throughout the zoo, so there’s no need to roam hungry.

Ticket Info: What It’ll Cost

Let’s keep it straightforward:

Walk-Through tickets: $27 per person (non-members)
Drive-Through tickets: $59 per vehicle
Children under 2: Free (finally, a perk for parents of toddlers!)

Tickets are on sale now and certain nights, especially close to Christmas, sell out quick. Grab yours early if you want the primo sparkle.

Bonus: Ugly Sweater 5K Returns

Lace up those running shoes and dig deep in the closet—Ugly Sweater 5K is set for Sunday, December 6 at 8:30 a.m. Run through the zoo while decked out in your most eye-searing sweater. Registration ($30) includes a custom tee, finisher medal, post-race food, and (of course) event admission. It’s a bonafide Cleveland holiday rite.

How to Plan Your Visit

You’ll find Cleveland Metroparks Zoo at 3900 Wildlife Way. There’s plenty of parking, but things fill up on weekends. Pro tips:

Carpool if you can (eco-friendly and easier to park)
Bundle up, especially for walk-through events
Arrive early for the best photos (and shortest snack lines)

Why Cleveland’s Holiday Nights Hit Different

Wild Winter Lights isn’t just about the dazzle—it’s about that unmistakable Cleveland spirit. Come for the lights, snacks, and Santa—but stay for the energy of a city that makes winter feel not just bearable, but magical.

Ready for the glow-up? Get those tickets, gather your crew, and light it up at Cleveland’s most festive after-dark event.