BRONX, N.Y. — November 18, 2025 — The Bronx Zoo transformed into a glowing winter wonderland this evening as Wildlife Conservation Society Members and select media enjoyed an exclusive preview of this year’s Holiday Lights celebration. 

Featuring millions of lights, seasonal treats, and an array of new and returning festive activities, the beloved winter festival welcomes visitors of all ages to make lasting memories at the Bronx Zoo. For thrill-seekers, the debut of the NEW Freeze Zone brings action-packed, wintry fun including a snow tube slide, an illuminated ice-themed throne, a snowman photo op, and virtual snowball throwing. The signature Lantern Safari experience, which connects visitors to the real wildlife and wild places WCS works to protect, is back with more than 400 glowing wildlife lanterns spread across six geographically themed trails.

“We’re proud to be a holiday destination for so many families and to offer an even bigger Holiday Lights program this year,” said Jim Breheny, Director of the Bronx Zoo and EVP of WCS Zoos & Aquarium. “The annual tradition is a meaningful way for us to engage community members with WCS’s mission while celebrating the season together.”

Holiday Lights provides a safe, family-friendly environment for guests to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit while sharing in an appreciation of wildlife at the 265-acre Bronx Zoo. This year’s program will feature new fun plus classic comforts and engaging interactives that fans know and love:

  • NEW Freeze Zone: Race down a thrilling snow tube slide, take your seat on an epic illuminated ice-themed throne, chat with talking snowmen, and throw virtual snowballs.
  • Lantern Safaris: Stroll among more than 400 glowing wildlife lanterns spread across six geographically themed lantern trails.
  • Enchanted Sea: The undersea world comes to life with interactive floor projections, ocean-themed light panels, a jellyfish celebration in lights, and NEW captivating puppetry.
  • Light Show Experiences: Including a towering holiday tree with synchronized musical light performances and a dazzling walk-through Light Tunnel.
  • Holiday Train: The family-favorite kids’ ride returns for 2025.
  • Ice Carving: Witness expert artists craft wildlife art from giant ice blocks.
  • Illuminated Performers: Encounter and pose for photos with animal-themed illuminated performers.
  • Wildlife Theater: The Bronx Zoo's own theater company leads puppet adventures and wildlife trivia.
  • Seasonal Treats: Warm up with hot cocoa, adult beverages, roasted s’mores, churros, pretzels, and more for purchase at in-house refreshment stations.

Holiday Lights will run on select dates from November 21, 2025 - January 4, 2026. Tickets are required and must be reserved in advance. Visit BronxZoo.com/holiday-lights/tickets to view available dates and times or book an Any-Night ticket for the flexibility to visit when it works best for you.

To sneak a peek at some of the animal figures represented in this year’s Holiday Lights lanterns, watch Kool & the Gang perform their hit anthem, “Celebration”, on the Bronx Zoo’s Wondrous World of Wildlife float in the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, airing November 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.