Light it up: Wild Winter Lights returns to Metroparks Zoo

This Tuesday, Nov. 12, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will transform into a winter wonderland, with hundreds of dazzling displays along the holiday trail for the return of Wild Winter Lights presented by NOPEC.

Now in its sixth consecutive holiday season, Wild Winter Lights features over 1.5 million lights across holiday-themed areas that include Enchanted Forest, Swan Lake, Candy Lane, and Polar Pathway.

The entire experience can be seen on foot, or in a vehicle during the Wild Winter Lights Drive-Through experience on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Nov. 12 through Dec. 11.

“Guests will experience over a dozen walk-through displays, including larger-than-life holiday favorites,” Kelly Manderfield, Metroparks chief marketing officer said in a statement. “Wild Winter Lights continues to be a timeless holiday tradition, and we are grateful to our community partners who help bring the holidays to life at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.”

This year’s event highlights include a dynamic musical light show featuring an enchanting 50-foot tree, carousel rides, festive costumed characters, and model train displays. Guests can purchase a ticket for the holiday-themed Cleveland Metroparks Railroad presented by Whistle Express Car Wash. Holiday treat offerings include Jack Frost Donuts, Kernels by Chrissie, and hot chocolate.

“We are excited to be the presenting sponsor for the sixth consecutive year of this spectacular event that has become a holiday tradition for many families in Northeast Ohio,” Chuck Keiper, NOPEC executive director, said in a statement. “Supporting accessible, family-friendly events like this is just one of the many ways NOPEC gives back to the communities we serve."

Wild Winter Lights and the Wild Winter Lights Drive-Through experience runs from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on select dates from this Tuesday, Nov. 12 through Monday, Dec. 30.

Wild Winter Lights tickets are limited, so online reservations are encouraged.

Advanced purchase tickets are $21 for Cleveland Zoological Society members; $24 for non-members. Ticket four-packs are $63 for Zoo Society members and $73 for non-members. Children under two are admitted for free. Tickets for the Drive-Through experience must be purchased in advance and are $45 per vehicle for Zoo members and $55 per vehicle for non-members.

Wild Winter Lights is presented by NOPEC and supported by community partners CrossCountry Mortgage, Meijer, MetroHealth, Whistle Express Car Wash, and Ganim Company.