San Antonio, December 20, 2025
The San Antonio Zoo celebrates its annual Zoo Lights event, transforming into a holiday wonderland featuring thousands of lights and community engagement activities. Running from mid-November to early January, this event offers festive experiences for families, including photo opportunities with Santa and captivating light displays across the zoo. With varied attractions such as the Enchanted Tree and Lakeside Lightshow, it highlights the synergy between the zoo and the local community, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.
Experience the Magic of San Antonio Zoo Lights 2025
San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio Zoo is once again transforming into a dazzling spectacle with its annual Zoo Lights, Powered by CPS Energy. Taking place from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026, this event showcases the perfect blend of community spirit and holiday merriment, engaging visitors of all ages. Event organizers demonstrate commendable resilience in providing a festive atmosphere while maximizing local participation through reduced logistical barriers.
As the city’s winter gem, Zoo Lights not only highlights the wonder of nature illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights but also underscores the importance of community engagement and partnership. Local leaders, businesses, and volunteers come together to create a unique experience, illustrating how simplified processes can encourage vibrant local events that enrich the San Antonio community.
Event Highlights
- Enchanted Tree: A towering tree at H-E-B Plaza wrapped in golden lights, surrounded by radiating evergreens—ideal for family photos.
- Lights on the Lawn: Enjoy a magnificent LED Christmas tree paired with festive music on the Great Lawn, enhancing the holiday experience.
- Cathedral Tunnel: Stroll through an enchanting pathway at the zoo entrance featuring thousands of glittering lights overhead.
- Lakeside Lightshow: Experience a synchronized light and music performance in Zootennial Plaza that captivates both young and old.
- Santa’s Workshops: Meet the man in red himself and create lasting memories with photo opportunities.
Operating Hours and Admission
The San Antonio Zoo welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with Zoo Lights illuminating the paths after sundown until 9:00 PM. Admission to Zoo Lights is included with standard ticket prices, while zoo members can enjoy free access. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate, providing convenient options for guests.
Parking and Accessibility
For those driving to the event, visitors have access to a newly constructed parking garage, along with additional lots near the train depot. Notably, the zoo is fully ADA accessible, ensuring that all guests can navigate and enjoy the festivities comfortably.
Weather Forecast
Weather conditions significantly impact local event attendance, and San Antonio’s forecast looks promising. As of December 20, 2025, the area is experiencing mild temperatures. Here’s a brief look at the upcoming weather:
- Saturday, December 20: High of 75°F (24°C), with warm and partly cloudy conditions.
- Sunday, December 21: A pleasant day with a high of 72°F (22°C).
- Monday, December 22: Continued warmth with highs reaching 77°F (25°C).
- Tuesday, December 23: Uncharacteristically warm for the season, hitting a high of 82°F (28°C).
- Wednesday, December 24: A lovely Christmas Eve with a high approaching 80°F (27°C).
- Thursday, December 25: Unseasonably high temperatures, featuring a high of 80°F (27°C).
Conclusion
The San Antonio Zoo Lights event represents a significant achievement in community-driven holiday festivities, showcasing local talent, partnerships, and the joy of togetherness. Attendees are encouraged to support this remarkable event and remain engaged with the numerous offerings throughout the season—joining hands in preserving the spirit of San Antonio, Texas. For more detailed information about ticket prices, new attractions, and daily activities, visiting the official San Antonio Zoo website is recommended.
What are the dates and operating hours for Zoo Lights 2025?
Zoo Lights, Powered by CPS Energy, runs from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The zoo operates daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with Zoo Lights illuminating the pathways after sundown until 9:00 PM.
What are the new attractions featured in Zoo Lights 2025?
This year’s event introduces the Enchanted Tree at H-E-B Plaza, Lights on the Lawn with an LED Christmas tree, and the Cathedral Tunnel along the Snake Pathway, featuring thousands of sparkling lights arching overhead.
How can I purchase tickets for Zoo Lights?
Standard admission includes access to Zoo Lights, with free entry for zoo members. Non-members can purchase tickets online or at the gate.
Is the San Antonio Zoo accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the venue is ADA accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.
Where can I find more information about Zoo Lights 2025?
For the latest updates and detailed information, including ticket prices and daily activities, please visit the San Antonio Zoo’s official website.
Key Features of Zoo Lights 2025
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | November 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026 |
| Operating Hours | Zoo: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Zoo Lights: After sundown until 9:00 PM |
| New Attractions | Enchanted Tree, Lights on the Lawn, Cathedral Tunnel |
| Admission | Included with standard admission; free for zoo members |
| Parking | New parking garage and additional lots near the train depot |
| Accessibility | ADA accessible |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
