LA Zoo Lights 2019. Photos by Elise Thompson.
The sixth annual LA Zoo Lights is happening nightly now through January 5, 2020 at Griffith Park. The winter wonderland dazzles with a disco ball forest, a water-laser show, the ever-popular 225 foot-long twinkle tunnel, dynamic lights and projections, the world’s largest illuminated pop-up storybook, and, of course, visits with Santa.
The self-guided 60-to-90 minute stroll is a wonderful way to start the holiday season, sipping on hot chocolate while being immersed in holiday cheer. It is heartwarming to watch the parents lifting their children onto their shoulders for a better view, and one can’t help but be charmed by young couples taking romantic selfies in front of the giant tree. Shared wonder and bonhomie makes strangers smile at each other, and if anyone bumps into another guest on the dark lane, they are all apologies.
Lots of glowing toys are on sale to adorn yourself with to become part of the experience and find each other in the dim lighting. Do watch where you are walking, as strollers are a menace to your shins. There are light snack and drinks, as well as photo ops with a very convincing Santa Claus on select nights for an additional charge.
Zoo Lights is open from 6 PM until 10 PM daily except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Entrance times are at scheduled at 6 PM and 7:30 PM on select nights. I would recommend arriving about an hour after entry times to avoid long lines. Parking is free. Tickets range from $13 to $21.95 for adults and $11.95 to $16.95 for children ages 2 – 12 depending on the night. There is also a VIP experience as well as a pajama party on Thursday, December 5, “Totally Tubular Tidings” On Thursday, December 1, 2019 and a special family New Year’s Eve party. Visit the website for information.
