Plan Your Visit
Experience Winnipeg's favourite holiday tradition!
Wander through our twinkling winter wonderland and feel the magic of the holidays come alive at the Zoo!
From beloved classics like the iconic LOVE sign to favourites including the showstopping Zoo Lights Express train, every corner shines with festive cheer. Plus, photos with Santa are available in the Peppermint Palace from November 20 - December 23.
NEW for 2026:
This year, visitors will also discover Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans exhibition, presented by Thor Heating and Plumbing, against the twinkly backdrop of Zoo Lights. The exhibition features six larger-than-life Troll sculptures made from reclaimed materials, set along the Zoo’s glowing pathways. This marks the first time Thomas Dambo’s Trolls have visited Canada.
Displays & Attractions
Thomas Dambo TROLLS: Save The Humans is an outdoor travelling exhibition featuring six larger-than-life Troll sculptures by acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo. Built from reclaimed materials, the Trolls bring together art, storytelling, and environmental stewardship. The Trolls will be featured throughout the Zoo Lights pathway.
Live Entertainment: Start your journey by listening to carolers near the entrance nightly from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm.
Hudson’s Bay: Be transported North and see Hudson Bay wildlife come to life in lights!
Starry Night: Howl at the moon with glowing, radiant wolves.
Inspiration Alley: Walk through a glowing path of well-wishes for the season, with words of peace, joy and wonder lighting the way.
Welcome to the Jungle: Soak in the tropical vibes this winter at our Enchanted Jungle with new animals and plants.
Peppermint Palace: Snap photos with Santa Claus from November 20 - December 23 and magical winter characters from December 26 - January 3, 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
Candy Cane Cove: Snuggle up in this red and white wonderland and take photos framed by life-sized candy canes.
Zoo Lights Express: All aboard! Our festive train is back near the Tundra Grill.
Tundra Trail: Explore this classic trail featuring our light tunnel!
Snow Boot Shake: Get moving and grooving with our live DJ & hula hoop party. DJ from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Aurora Lights: This classic display is indoors for an added warm-up spot. Become mesmerized by the light show, matching with beautiful music to whisk you away to the Northern Lights.
Lover’s Lane: Bring your sweetheart to Lover's Lane and take your photo at the iconic LOVE sign and the hugging polar bears.
The Orchard: Wander beneath glowing fruit trees and past illuminated flowers.
Parking
Limited parking is available at the Zoo front entrance. Please consider carpooling, active transportation, or public transportation.
Zoo Overflow Parking Lot Directions
Food and Beverage
Tasty treats and warm drinks are must-haves at Zoo Lights! All food and beverage stations are serving hot and cold drinks, including coffee, hot chocolate, craft beer, wine, and more!
Bison Snack Shack: Warm up by the fire and enjoy grab-and-go meals, snacks, seasonal hot drinks and other tasty treats.
Peppermint Palace (Zoo Event Tent): Quick, hot foods and snacks, seasonal hot drinks, and other tasty treats!
Tundra Grill: Full-service indoor restaurant serving burgers, hot dogs, fries, snacks, popcorn, grab-and-go items, and s'more kits!
Winston’s: Cozy, seasonal hot drinks, sweet treats and s'more kits.
Gingerbread House: Cozy, seasonal hot drinks, sweet treats and s'more kits.
Trail Shack: Cozy, seasonal hot drinks, sweet treats and s'more kits.


Zoo Lights Presenting Sponsor: Red River Co-op
Official Lighting Designer: Lights Unlimited
Supporting Partners: Coca-Cola | Steinbach Credit Union | The Keg Steak House & Bar | Maxillo Winnipeg | Payworks | Manitoba Hydro | CPHR Manitoba | Influx Electric | CN Rail
In-Kind Partners: Prairie Mobile Communications | Calm Air
Media Partners: Winnipeg Free Press