Jacksonville ZooLights is bigger and brighter this holiday season

ZooLights, hosted by the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, is back for the holidays and there's plenty to do.

The zoo lights up its 80-acre park with thousands of twinkling LED lights wrapped around trees, sculptures and displays.

ZooLights will go on from Dec. 9 to 11 and from Dec. 16 until Jan. 7, though not on Christmas Day.

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Guests can view sculptures in the Savanna Blooms Garden. Students from the University of North Florida will display their sculptures near Stingray Bay.

Hot chocolate and s’mores as well as an “ice” skating rink will be available during the event. An illuminated train will take guests throughout the zoo and Santa will be around to take photos with children.

Wear your tacky Christmas sweater on Dec. 17, and your favorite footie pajamas on Dec. 18 for the Pajama Party. The event will also have a Star Wars on Dec. 29 and a stroller parade during the event.

There will also be live performances, including some from Dalton Cyr, Mama Blue, Jacksonville Children’s Chorus and The Florida Ballet.

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The zoo will continue to have its regular park hours each day, closing at 5 p.m., and reopening for the event at 6 p.m. Parking is free.

Admission starts at $8 for members and $10 for nonmembers. Children under 2 get in free. The zoo is offering a Value Ticket that includes admission, train rides, 4D Theatre, Stingray Bay and carousel.

Cox Media Group