Colors of the Wild at Jacksonville Zoo: 2026-27 Season Guide

The Jacksonville Zoo's holiday lantern event is now called Colors of the Wild, presented by Community First Credit Union. It replaced the older ZOOLights branding. Specific 2026-27 dates have not been announced yet, but the past two seasons both opened with a members' preview around November 21 and a public Opening Night with Santa's arrival around November 22, running select nights from November through February.

• When: Typically opens around November 21-22, runs select nights through February, 2026-27 dates TBA
• Where: Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, 370 Zoo Parkway, Northside
• Cost: Separately ticketed from daytime admission; last season ran roughly $20-25 for members and $25-35 for non-members depending on the date

What to expect

More than 1,200 illuminated lanterns arranged across zones, including an ocean gallery, an African savanna, mystical Asian creatures, and a Winter Wonderland stretch. Live music, hot chocolate, s'mores, and Santa appearances round it out on select nights. The event runs from about 5:30 to 9:30 PM and sells out regularly, so tickets go on sale well before opening.

Before you go

Tickets are timed and non-transferable, and this one fills up. We will update this page once the zoo announces 2026-27 dates and pricing.

Check for the season announcement at jacksonvillezoo.org