The Fort Wayne Zoo is once again lighting up the winter evenings with its popular Wild Lights holiday display. Families and visitors can expect more than one million twinkling lights, a significant boost from the previous year thanks to 300,000 brand‑new lights added for the 2026 season.
Event Details and Activities
Wild Lights runs each evening from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on select nights through January 3. In addition to the dazzling illumination, the zoo offers a nightly tree‑lighting ceremony, classic train rides around the illuminated grounds, cookie‑decorating stations for kids, and a cozy s’mores setup for families to enjoy together.
Admission is set at $12 for the general public, with discounted rates available for zoo members. The zoo encourages visitors to arrive early, as the popular event often draws large crowds, especially on weekends.
Why the Celebration Matters
Wild Lights has become a cherished tradition for Fort Wayne residents, providing a family‑friendly way to celebrate the holiday season while supporting the zoo’s educational mission. The added lights and expanded activities reflect the zoo’s commitment to enhancing the visitor experience and fostering community togetherness during the colder months.
“We’re thrilled to welcome families back to Wild Lights and to share the new lighting installations,” said a zoo spokesperson. “The extra lights and activities create an even more magical atmosphere that highlights the beauty of our animals and the spirit of the season.”
Practical Information
Parking is available in the zoo’s regular lot, and the zoo recommends checking the official website for any weather‑related updates or changes to the schedule. Visitors with mobility concerns can contact the zoo’s guest services for assistance.
For more details, ticket purchases, and a full list of participating nights, please visit the Fort Wayne Zoo’s website.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
