Wild Lights Dogs After Dark - A Wild Experience

Be amazed by lifelike dog-themed ice sculptures.

All dogs will receive a vibrant necklace to light up their night.

Caribbean Eclipse Steel Drum Band, performing in the U.S. Bank Gathering Place, will make you feel like you’re in the tropics while playing holiday hits. Their signature sound is even said to be soothing to dogs.

Every dog’s favorite treat — a pup cup — will be available for purchase at Wild Burger! Pup cups include whipped cream, a milk bone, and fresh blueberries.

North Shore Bank Safari Train (operates until 8:15 p.m. — for humans only, weather-dependent) – Enjoy a crisp, winter woodland ride.
$4 plus tax

Penzeys Carousel (operates until 8:30 p.m. — for humans only, weather-dependent) – Ride atop your favorite animal on this old-fashioned fan favorite.
$3 plus tax

Sky Safari (operates until 8:15 p.m. — for humans only, weather-dependent) – Experience Wild Lights from above!
$4 plus tax

Your dog can meet Jolly ‘ole St. Nick himself and receive a FREE gift when Santa visits Wild Lights Dogs After Dark!

Located in the Conservation Outpost.

In addition to the Wild Lights décor, enjoy special holiday and animal photo ops designed specifically for dogs.

To accommodate guests with sensory sensitivities, a special Wild Lights Guide is available to join in this sparkly event.

Help wildlife by recycling your holiday lights at the Zoo this year! Recycling lights keeps them out of landfills and allows materials to be reused — less space for landfills means more space for wildlife! Look for the collection bin in the U.S. Bank Gathering Place through January 11, 2026.

Wild Lights just got a little wilder! Discover the magic of the holidays with the Wild Lights, Wild Finds scavenger hunt! As you journey through, you’ll have the chance to answer questions, submit photos, and answer polls. Earn badges for completing challenges at different festive zones across the Zoo to win exciting prizes.

To get started, download the Eventzee app at https://mkezoo.com/ScavengerHunt and create an account. When you’re ready for your wild winter adventure, enter event code mczwildlights. This free scavenger hunt will have you exploring across the Zoo, so be sure to dress for winter weather!