As the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium prepares for its magical Wildlights celebration, a heartwarming holiday event featuring millions of sparkling LED lights that transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland from November through January, the joy and comfort of the animals are always front and center.
Wildlights invites families, friends, and loved ones to share in the wonder and nostalgia of the season, creating memories together under the twinkling lights. And, behind the scenes, the Zoo’s dedicated teams are busy making sure that the animals stay cozy, safe, and even enjoy the holiday excitement too!
Home to over 10,000 amazing animals, the Columbus Zoo puts great care into balancing the magic of Wildlights with the wellbeing of its residents. Thoughtful planning, from gentle light and sound placements to careful observation of animal behavior, helps make sure that every creature at the Zoo feels as comfortable and relaxed as possible during this festive season.
Thoughtful Planning and Expert Guidance
Wildlights has become a beloved holiday tradition, and the Zoo’s experienced curators and Animal Care teams play a key role in bringing it to life each year. With a wealth of knowledge from close to 100 years of caring for endangered and threatened animals, the Care and Facilities teams thoughtfully plan each aspect of the display to make sure everyone, animals and guests alike, can enjoy the festivities. Teams know where lights and sounds can safely brighten up the Zoo and where gentle adjustments are needed to keep the animals comfortable. Even new experiences, like the Dinosaur Island Yule Tide Boat Ride, are carefully reviewed to ensure they add joy to the season without disturbing nearby habitats!
Building Resilience and Adaptation
The Zoo also aims to make Wildlights an enriching experience for its animal residents! Animals are gradually introduced to the new sights and sounds as setup progresses. Lights near animal habitats are set on timers, helping maintain a steady routine, and all holiday music is turned off by 10:30 p.m. to provide peaceful, quiet nights. This gradual transition mirrors natural seasonal changes, giving the animals a chance to comfortably adjust — and in some cases, even enjoy the new sights and sounds as part of their environment!
Special Adjustments for Sensitive Species
Certain animals, like markhors, are especially sensitive to changes in their surroundings. For these species, thoughtful adjustments like covered windows are made, allowing them to retreat from view when they need a break. This freedom of choice helps the more sensitive animals feel safe and comfortable during busier times. Additionally, areas housing nocturnal animals feature gently adjusted light cycles, providing a smooth transition rather than a sudden change, so they, too, can enjoy Wildlights in their own way.
Monitoring and Adapting in Real-Time
The Zoo’s Animal Care and Conservation Medicine teams continuously monitor and adjust to make sure the animals remain comfortable and happy throughout Wildlights. By observing animal behavior, staff can spot any signs of discomfort and make immediate adjustments, such as dimming lights, moving displays, or creating extra quiet zones. This careful attention ensures that every creature at the zoo is cared for and comfortable amid the holiday festivities.
Intentional Habitat Choices
Wildlights is designed to create magical memories for families while putting animal comfort first. For instance, buildings like Discovery Reef, the historic Reptile Building, and the Nocturnal Building house animals already well-suited to evening lights and gentle guest interactions. Elsewhere, some animals, like gorillas and bonobos, are not viewable in the evenings during Wildlights to relax in a peaceful space, providing them with a cozy retreat during the busy holiday season.
As always, Wildlights is included in Columbus Zoo admission, so guests are encouraged to arrive earlier in the day to see the animals that call the Zoo home!
A Celebration for All Generations, Centered on Conservation: How YOU Make It Happen
The Columbus Zoo’s Wildlights celebration beautifully combines the magic of the holiday season with a heartfelt commitment to wildlife conservation and animal care.
As you and your loved ones experience the wonder of Wildlights this season, we want to express our sincere gratitude — your support is what makes these enchanting evenings and the year-round care of our animals possible.
Thanks to the generosity of visitors like you, we’re able to enrich each animal’s life and continue critical conservation efforts. If you’d like to help us make an even greater impact, please consider donating. Your support allows us to go beyond — creating meaningful experiences, protecting animals and their habitats, and inspiring future generations.
We thank you for your commitment and hope Wildlights brings a bit of holiday magic to your season, knowing it also helps our animals enjoy a safe, joyful time of their own!
Wildlights is efficiently powered by AEP Ohio.
