Zoo Lights returns to Assiniboine Park Zoo 

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Zoo Lights presented by Red River Co-op will return to the Assiniboine Park Zoo this holiday season from Friday, Nov. 22, to Sunday, Jan. 5.

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Zoo Lights features over 1.5 million lights and a stunning array of illuminated displays along a two-kilometre walking loop within the Zoo. This year, guests will enjoy photogenic favourites like the LOVE sign and the cascading aurora borealis lights, plus exciting new and improved displays and experiences.

“Since we launched the event in 2019, Zoo Lights has become a beloved holiday tradition,” said Laura Cabak, Director of Communications and Public Relations, Assiniboine Park Conservancy. “It’s a joyful celebration and a wonderful way to bring people together at this special time of year.”

Here is what visitors can look forward to during 35 nights of Zoo Lights!

New and improved light displays

LOOP by Olivier Girouard, Jonathan Villeneuve and Ottoblix — a captivating installation that blends art and technology, inviting guests to engage with its dynamic design and interactive features.

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Zoo Lights Express — a life-sized, festive train display.

Zoo Lights Arcade — featuring glow in the snow fun and games (ladder toss, skee-ball, and corn hole).

Hoops and Swoops — a bright, cheerful display where guests can play with LED hula hoops.

PLUS Manitoba’s largest light maze.

Sensory night — Wednesday, Dec. 11

The Zoo Lights experience will be modified to provide a more comfortable experience for guests with sensory regulation or processing needs. Modifications will include lighting and audio adjustments and reduced capacity.

Moments and memories

Enjoy a warm welcome and get your groove at the DJ Shack as you enter the Zoo. Santa will be at Zoo Lights every night until December 23. Other winter characters will join us after Santa returns to the North Pole.

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Hot eats and tasty treats

A variety of tasty food and beverage options will be served at the Bison Snack Shack, Tundra Grill, Winston’s, the Marquee event tent, and BeaverTails food truck. S’mores kits will also be for purchase.

Ticket information

Tickets are $17.00 + GST (age 3+). Children 2 and under are FREE.

Tickets are date and time specific. Guests must enter the Zoo within the 30-minute time frame indicated on their ticket and can stay as long as they like (until closing).

Tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person at the Zoo during regular daytime hours of operation. Evening walk-ups are welcome during the event, but subject to availability.

Volunteers needed

APC is currently recruiting volunteers to support Zoo Lights. Volunteers enjoy numerous benefits including a complimentary Zoo Lights gift and the opportunity to earn free tickets for daytime Zoo admission and more. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, commit to at least two shifts, and be able to spend extended periods of time outdoors in all kinds of weather.

Zoo Lights is supported by presenting sponsor Red River Co-op, through a multi-year partnership with APC. The full event schedule, hours of operation, frequently asked questions, and more information about volunteer opportunities can be found at zoolightswpg.ca.

ABOUT LOOP: LOOP by Olivier Girouard, Jonathan Villeneuve and Ottoblix is a co-production of Quartier des spectacles Partnership and Ekumen, distributed by QDSinternational.

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