The zoo hits differently at night during the holiday season when everything is lit up. Check out these holiday displays at zoos and aquariums in NJ, NY and PA that have underwater Christmas trees, giant animal-themed structures, train rides and diving Santas.
BRONX ZOO HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY
Select dates, Nov. 18-Jan. 4
Millions of lights twinkle and hundreds of illuminated animals sparkle as you walk through six lantern trails. The Holiday Train and Enchanted Sea return, while new this year are snow tube slides, an ice throne and virtual snowball throwing.
CHRISTMAS UNDERWATER
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Nov. 21-Dec. 24
See underwater lights, spot Scuba Santa and view the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree while walking across the Shark Bridge and checking out two giant hippos.
HOLIDAY LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Select dates, Nov. 21-Jan. 3
Take a stroll through outdoor light displays, get a photo with Santa, watch ice sculpting demos and, of course, see the animals.
LET IT GLOW
Bergen County Zoo, Paramus
Thurs.-Sun., Nov. 6-Jan. 11
As you walk through the zoo or ride on the train, you’ll see 30 larger-than-life scenes decorated with animal-themed lanterns.
LUMINATURE
Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, Nov. 20-Jan. 3
There will be light tunnels, sculptures, Christmas trees and nature-themed displays throughout the zoo. You can meet Santa and watch performances.
SEAS & GREETINGS
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Pt. Pleasant
Dec. 13, 20, 27-28
Holiday activities get a Jersey Shore twist, including appearances by Diving Santa, pictures with holiday princesses, the Bubble Snow Show, a holiday magic show, Fishmas Tales and ice skating.
TWINKLING TIDES
SEA LIFE, American Dream, East Rutherford
Select dates, Nov.-Jan.
Celebrate the holidays under the sea, as more than 10 interactive zones will be decked out in holiday décor. Spot Scuba Claus in the ocean tunnel on select dates.
WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Lehigh Valley Zoo, Schnecksville, PA
Select dates, Nov. 14-Jan. 3
This event has 1.2 million sparkling lights and displays placed throughout the zoo. Visitors will find classic holiday scenes, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and s’mores, performances by different princesses, and photos with Santa.
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Read More:
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Attractions in NJ, NY and PA
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Lights in NJ
