Christmas in the Wild Tampa Zoo: 2025 In-Depth Guide

The holidays come alive in the most enchanting way at Tampa’s ZooTampa at Lowry Park during its annual Christmas in the Wild event. This festive celebration transforms the zoo into a twinkling wonderland filled with dazzling lights, seasonal treats, exciting animal activities, and holiday cheer.

Perfect for families, couples, and festive spirits of all ages, this magical event has quickly become one of Tampa’s top holiday attractions. Ready to embrace the magic of the season surrounded by wildlife and wonder? Here’s everything you need to know for Christmas in the Wild 2025!

Holiday Lights and Wild Nights

Explore vibrant light tunnels, themed zones, and spectacular displays set against the lush backdrop of the zoo after dark.

From November through December, ZooTampa at 1101 W. Sligh Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604 will glow brighter than ever during Christmas in the Wild. Expect towering trees wrapped in millions of colorful LED lights, immersive themed zones, and larger-than-life holiday displays designed to delight visitors of all ages.

Guests can stroll through enchanting light tunnels, animal-themed light sculptures, and illuminated pathways winding through the zoo’s lush landscapes. Seasonal music and synchronized light shows add to the festive atmosphere, creating an immersive multi-sensory experience unlike any other holiday event in the Tampa Bay area.

This event takes place nightly (except select holidays) from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m., allowing visitors to enjoy the best of the zoo at twilight and under the stars.

Mark Your Calendars for Magic

Join evenings filled with Santa visits, snowfall experiences, live music, and special themed nights throughout the holiday season.

• Dates: There are no official announcements yet for 2025 dates.
• Open Days: Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and select weekdays, including Christmas Eve (December 24) and New Year’s Eve (December 31).

Each night is packed with festive surprises. Look forward to:

• Santa Claus appearances are perfect for photos and wish-list sharing.
• Snowfall experiences that bring a touch of winter wonder to Florida’s warmth.
• Live holiday music and caroling performances.
• Special themed-nights, including sensory-friendly evenings tailored for children and guests with sensitivities.

Perfect for the Whole Family

Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, bonding with tweens, or making memories with grandparents, Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa is designed with everyone in mind.

• Up-close animal encounters with holiday-themed enrichment for creatures, such as penguins, sloths, and giraffes.
• Interactive shows featuring festive storytelling and educational insights about wildlife conservation.
• Seasonal food and drink booths offering treats, such as hot cocoa, warm apple cider, holiday cookies, and savory snacks.
• A festive marketplace with holiday souvenirs and artisan gifts.
• Designated sensory-friendly nights with adjusted lighting and sound.
• Ample stroller-friendly pathways and cozy warming stations for comfort.

This event is more than just a walk-through light display—it’s a true holiday adventure filled with fun, education, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories.

A Holiday Experience Like No Other

What sets Christmas in the Wild apart from other seasonal lights events?

The unique mix of wildlife and wonder. Guests can stroll alongside nocturnal animals as they thrive under the moonlight, sip hot cocoa under Florida palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights, or explore specially themed areas such as:

• Santa’s Village — festive décor, elf meet-and-greets, and crafts for kids.
• African Safari Holiday Zone — exotic animals with holiday décor celebrating diverse cultures.
• Reindeer enclosures and photo ops with holiday characters throughout the park.

Visitors also enjoy exclusive entertainment, including live holiday music, dance performances, and story time with Mrs. Claus. Whether capturing holiday photos with Santa or joining in community holiday activities, this event provides a festive experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

Plan Ahead for Easy Parking

ZooTampa offers free parking in a large, well-lit lot right next to the main entrance.

• Arrive early (before 4 p.m.) whenever possible, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Overflow parking areas are available within a short, well-marked walking distance.
• Parking attendants and security staff are on hand for a smooth experience.

Pro tip: Carpool or use rideshare to ease parking demand during peak nights

Bundle the Holiday Wilds with Tripster

Planning your holiday visit to Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa? Tripster makes it effortless to turn one magical night into a full Tampa getaway. Bundle zoo tickets, nearby family-friendly hotels, and local attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or iFLY Tampa in one seamless booking. With exclusive discounts and vacation packages, you’ll save time, cut stress, and focus on making holiday memories that roar.

Book your Christmas in the Wild 2025 adventure now with Tripster and celebrate the season surrounded by wildlife, lights, and wonder!