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The light displays transform the zoo into a winter wonderland.

Top 5 Things to Do at the Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular

1. Take in the lights and snap some pics

Everywhere you look, you'll find beautiful twinkling light displays and amazing photo ops. Want to get a great start to the evening? Just head toward the carousel area from the front entrance and you'll pass a cute parade of light-up flamingos. Then stroll through a magical tunnel of blinking lights. Behind the carousel, you'll find the biggest light-up tree in the zoo. It's probably about 30 feet tall and hollowed out so you can walk through it for a 360 view. It's the perfect backdrop for holiday pics.

2. See some animals

While most animals will be sleeping during this nighttime event, there are a few spots to spot live animals. Head to the barn to spot the goats, chickens, and sheep. And if you have a child that's under 48 inches, get in line to take a ride on Butterscotch the pony ($3 per child). You can also check out the Reptile House to see swimming turtles or spy a sleeping lizard. While the lights are dim inside the cages, you can still catch a glimpse of some pretty neat scaly friends. And don't miss the touch tank, where kids can pet a stingray or see a tank of tropical fish. Good luck finding the shark in the touch tank. Don't worry; it doesn't bite.

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Get toasty around a private s'mores pit and roast marshmallows. 

3. Rent an enchanted igloo

If you're traveling to Turtle Back Zoo with a group, consider splurging on an enchanted igloo rental. These heated bubbles have soft seating for 12 people, fun lighting, and some special treats. You'll get commemorative tumblers, light-up necklaces, hot chocolate, cookies, and s'mores kits to make over a private s'mores pit. Rentals are $200 for 1.5 hours, and reservations are recommended.

4. See special guests like Santa

Santa will make some special appearances at the gazebo on certain nights. Take your own pics or buy professional ones. Also check the zoo's schedule for princess visits and “Don’t Be A GRINCH” weekends. See ice carving demonstrations on certain nights.

5. Ride the train and carousel

Take a memorable holiday train ride or a carousel ride. Tickets are $3 per person, per ride.

What to Eat at the Holiday Lights Spectacular

You can bring your own water and snacks to the zoo, or pick up some special treats at the event. We absolutely loved the s'mores stand outside the cafe. Buy a kit ($8) and toast up some marshmallows on the flames. You'll have enough to make about four s'mores.

The Savannah Cafe is open for snacks and dinner options like hot dogs, pizza, chicken tenders, and fries. There are also some food vendors located near the train station selling soft pretzels, funnel cake, hot cocoa, and kettle corn. Or save room for the zeppoles stand, which also sells fried Oreos.

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The twinkling lights are a perfect backdrop for family photos. 

Know Before You Go to Turtle Back Zoo's Holiday Light Spectacular

• Admission is FREE, but donations of non-perishable food items, new unwrapped toys, and gently used coats are greatly appreciated.
• Extra fees are required for the train, carousel, pony rides, and food.
• Hours are 5pm-9pm, Friday, November 29 to Wednesday, December 4, and Friday, December 6 to Tuesday, December 31
• Closed December 24 and 25
• Check out the zoo's official website for more info. 

Photos by the author