See what's new at Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights this year 👀
One of Cincinnati's most anticipated winter traditions has returned for the holiday season.
The 43rd annual PNC Festival of Lights, which has been voted the No. 1 zoo lights display in the country by USA TODAY's 10Best, is officially open at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden now through Jan. 4, 2026.
This year's light show is even bigger and brighter than ever, as the zoo will be set aglow with approximately 5 million LED lights, according to a press release.
If you want to see it all in action, check out the opening night video here or at the top of the page.
The zoo has added 26 animal lanterns, including a giant peacock, black bear, poison dart frogs, cheetahs, a snow leopard and more. The Wild Lights Lake Show will also feature additional lights along the shoreline.
Bear Ridge, which is home to bear cubs Hazel and Juniper, will also "shine bright" this year and offer a special daily chat at 4:30 p.m., the release adds. You don't want to miss the return of the North Polar Express Train, sponsored by Huntington Bank, which will chug through a brand-new Polar Express tunnel.
Daniel and Karlee Sims push their daughter, Maya, through one of the light displays during the PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.
Visitors can also explore the town of Zoo-ville, sponsored by Frisch’s, walk through the famous rainbow tunnel, search for the five hidden Fiona fairy statues in Fiona’s Fairyland, take a picture with Santa and eat at one of the s'mores stands.
Are you hoping to see some real Zoo critters? Then visitors should plan to arrive before 5 p.m. as that is when the animals usually head indoors.
PNC Festival of Lights hours, tickets and more
The Festival of Lights is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The Festival of Lights will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dec. 21-31.
The Zoo will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Special activities, including visits with Santa, begin at 4 p.m. North Polar Express Train & Conservation Carousel rides begin at 2:30 p.m.
PNC Festival of Lights is included in zoo admission. However, zoo officials recommend that visitors purchase tickets online as prices may change daily, based on expected attendance.
