Christmas at the Zoo
Presented by Indiana Members Credit Union

Christmas at the Zoo

Nov. 23 – Jan. 5, 2025 | 5-9pm Sun-Thu & 5-10pm Fri-Sat | Closed Nov. 28, Dec. 24 & 25, Dec. 31 & Jan. 1

Experience Our Beloved Holiday Tradition!

A light sprinkling of snow and the glow of twinkling lights will fill the sky, creating a magical nighttime experience that has become one of Central Indiana’s most beloved holiday traditions.

Dating back to 1967, the Indianapolis Zoo was the first zoo in the nation to hold a holiday lights event. Year after year, Christmas at the Zoo presented by Indiana Members Credit Union continues to grow. For our 57th year, we’re adding beautiful new decor and experiences, to enhance your next holiday trip to the Zoo. And the best part is it’s all included with regular admission!

Santa's-Magic-Cottage-Mockup

Santa’s Village

New This Year! Santa’s Magic Cottage

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to step inside a glittering snow globe, then Santa’s Village under the Bicentennial Pavilion is the place to be. New this year, guests will have the opportunity to take a personal journey to the North Pole with Santa’s Magic Cottage Warmed by Peterman Brothers!

This one-of-a-kind experience fully immerses you in the holiday spirit. Mrs. Claus will invite you inside the home of Kris Kringle, and Santa’s elves will guide you through this experience. Families will meet Santa in his personal study, where kids can enjoy a personal visit, tell him their wishes and create long lasting memories with the perfect photo opportunity.

And as an added bonus, Santa’s Magic Cottage Warmed by Peterman Brothers will help beat the winter chill.

Santa will be welcoming visitors during Christmas at the Zoo starting at 5pm.

Monday-Thursday until 5pm when Santa’s Village Opens: IMCU members who show their IMCU debit or credit card, or digital card on their phone, their group will advance to the FRONT OF THE LINE for Santa’s Magic Cottage Warmed by Peterman Brothers.

kulture city logo _snow
New in 2024 – Sensory Friendly Evenings

On two select nights, December 3 & 10, Christmas at the Zoo will be a low sensory experience with alterations to sound, smell and lighting.

Christmas bulb ornament with tree inside

Included With Admission

Upgrade to Zoo Member

indy zoo christmas lights

Christmas at the Zoo! Presented by Indiana Members Credit Union has been Voted Seventh in the Nation

Our beloved holiday event was nominated for USA Today’s 10 Best Zoo Lights! Year after year, we have been ranked among the top of the nation’s best zoo lights. Thanks for everyone who voted for us!

CATZ Foodie Guide_Brisket Burger

Foodie Guide presented by Red Gold

Don’t worry about dinner, we’ve got you covered. Try our hearty homemade holiday fare to ease your appetite. From pecan pie to brisket burgers and pretzel bites, there’s so much to try. Don’t forget to grab a cup of cheer to fill with hot chocolate as you enjoy the lights.

Your Holiday Adventure Awaits!

Need help finding Santa’s Magic Cottage Warmed by Peterman Brothers? Can’t find the nearest hot cocoa? Download the Christmas at the Zoo map to help guide you on your next magical visit to the Zoo!

tiger licking snow at Indianapolis Zoo

Give A Gift That Also Supports Our Animal Conservation Mission

More Holiday Details in our Blog

Caring for Animals in Cold Weather
Caring for Animals in Cold Weather

From temperature-regulated pools to heated rocks, learn the ways we help keep animals cozy during cold weather.

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Zoo Gift Giving Ideas
Zoo Gift Giving Ideas

Here’s some zoo gift giving ideas to help you support conservation while creating memorable moments for a loved one.

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Santa’s Magic Cottage
Santa’s Magic Cottage

New this year, Santa’s Magic Cottage warmed by Peterman Brothers at the Indianapolis Zoo. Are you ready for a magical journey to …

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christmas lights in a pile
Go green this holiday season and recycle old Christmas lights!

If your holiday lights are no longer shining bright, don’t throw them out! Drop them off in the donation bins at our Front Entry and we’ll recycle them for you free of charge. Holiday light recycling is presented by our friends at Technology Recyclers.