Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Holiday Lights Spectacular returns the day after Thanksgiving, running nightly from Friday, Nov. 27, through Sunday, Jan. 3.
The display features more than 3.5 million lights across 40 acres of the zoo, according to organizers. Visitors walk lighted pathways past displays including penguins and snowflakes, with hot chocolate, adult beverages and s’mores available along the way.
The event runs from 5 to 9:30 p.m. nightly and is closed Dec. 24 and 25. Rhode Island Energy is the presenting sponsor.
Special nights
A parade marking Santa’s arrival is set for Friday, Dec. 4, at 5:30 p.m., featuring zoo trains, decorated trucks and carts, and a Model A carrying Santa, along with carolers and elves. Munroe Dairy will hand out milk and cookie samples in Nourish Plaza during a Touch-a-Truck. Santa will visit the gift shop from 6 to 8 p.m.
On Tuesdays, all guests receive $5 off admission.
Elsa, Anna and Olaf appear alongside the Grinch for photos on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Santa visits Santa’s Workshop in the zoo gift shop Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m.
Roger the Red Panda, the zoo’s mascot, hosts a storytime nightly at 6, 7 and 8 p.m., with a retelling of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
If you go
Tickets must be purchased online in advance at rwpzoo.org/holidaylights. The event is open rain or shine, including in light to moderate rain or snow, with no refunds or rescheduling.
Proceeds support the zoo’s animal care, education and conservation programs.
