The Cincinnati Zoo is shining bright for the 44th annual PNC Festival of Lights! Come early to see more animals and stay for the lights!
In addition to admiring the beauty of 5 million LED lights, visitors can find the 5 Fiona fairies in Fairyland, take in a blacklight puppet show, marvel at the spectacular Wild Lights on Swan Lake, or snack at one of our seasonal concessions.
The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving (November 26), Christmas Eve (December 24), and Christmas Day (December 25).
November 19, 2026- January 3, 2027
Zoo Hours during PNC Festival of Lights:
Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 9pm
Friday – Saturday: 10am – 10pm
December 20-31: 10am-10pm
Explore the Fun!
- The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving (November 26), Christmas Eve (December 24), and Christmas Day (December 25).
- North Polar Express Train & Carousel rides begin at 2:30pm
- PNC Festival of Lights is included in Zoo admission. Visit the Zoo early and stay for the lights!
- Santa will be available for visits and photos in the spectacular Santa’s Village, starting at 4 p.m. daily through December 23.
- Dec. 23rd is the last night to visit with Santa
- Full costumed characters may not be allowed in the Zoo.
Tickets
- Wonder at the 5 million LED lights throughout the Zoo
- Families will enjoy searching for Fiona fairy statues in Fiona’s Fairyland
- Guests will enjoy the immersive “Under the Sea” area.
- 65 larger than life Animal Lanterns located throughout the Zoo
- Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake
- Madcap Puppet Show Performances will take place November 17, 2026-January 3, 2027 during the season (with no performances on November 26th, December 24th, and December 25th) at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 each night.
- Meet costume characters beginning at 4pm
- Please note that adult guests in full character costumes, such as Santa suits, Grinch costumes, etc may not be admitted into the Zoo
- North Polar Express Train and carousel rides start daily at 2:30pm (additional charges apply)
- Roast Smore’s at the Smore’s Stations
- Enjoy freshly roasted nuts and other holiday treats
- See animals inside multiple indoor heated buildings (details in Bright Tips below)
- Meet-A-Creature: meet ambassador animals at Manatee Springs, Discovery Forest, and Club House
- Happy Zoo Year celebration on Dec 31
- Share your PNC Festival of Lights pictures on social media using #cincyzoopic for a chance to be featured in future Zoo marketing material!