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. 19-Jan. 5
See immersive light displays, animal lanterns and animated light shows at this walk-thru experience that also features entertainment and the Holiday Train. Sensory-friendly events are planned on select nights.
CHRISTMAS UNDERWATER
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Nov. 23-Dec. 24
See underwater lights, spot Scuba Santa and view the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree. Also planned are Snowtunda (indoor flurries), festive puppet shows and storytimes.
HOLIDAY LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Select dates, Nov.-Dec.
Take a stroll through outdoor light displays, get a photo with Santa, watch ice sculpting demos and, of course, see the animals at this beloved zoo.
LET IT GLOW
Bergen County Zoo, Paramus
Thurs.-Sun., Nov. 7-Jan. 12
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
Nov.21-Jan.4
The massive light display transforms the nation’s first zoo into an Insta-worthy destination. While the animals sleep in their indoor enclosures, the grounds of the zoo feature light tunnels and sculptures, Christmas trees, selfies with Santa, nature-themed displays and performances.
SEA OF LIGHTS HOLIDAY LIGHTS SPECTACULAR
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Pt. Pleasant
Dec. 7, 14, 21-22, 28
The winter wonderland includes treats, crafts, pictures with Santa, games, Diving Santa, and nighttime holiday entertainment. The aquarium, Sweet Shop, gift shop, pavilion and arcade will be open.
TWINKLING TIDES
SEA LIFE, American Dream, East Rutherford
Nov. 29-Jan. 1
Celebrate the holidays under the sea with thousands of lights under the sea; more than 10 interactive zones will be decked out in holiday décor. Spot Scuba Claus in the ocean tunnel on select dates. Grab a map for the Coldwater Creature Scavenger Hunt. There’s a special Noon Year’s Eve celebration in the Ocean View exhibit on December 31.
WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Lehigh Valley Zoo, Schnecksville, PA
Select dates, Nov. 15-Jan. 4
This event has 1.2 million sparkling lights and displays. Visitors will find classic holiday scenes, fire pits, hot chocolate and s’mores and live performances from princesses Anna, Elsa, Belle and Cinderella.
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