Wild Lights Dogs After Dark - A Wild Experience

Enchanting Extras

Check out these enchanting extras — and don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram using #WildLightsMKEZoo.

Enjoy the 28-foot Tree of Wildlife, a fully animated, musical tree featuring the Wild Lights animals. Located in Polar Point, outside the U.S. Bank Gathering Place.

Let your imagination run wild at the massive Light Wall! Grab acrylic pegs and create your own colorful design. Located on Landmark Landing.

Dog-Themed Ice Sculpture Displays

Be amazed by lifelike dog-themed ice sculptures.
Glow Necklaces

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

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.
Pup Cups

Every dog’s favorite treat — a pup cup — will be available for purchase!
Rides

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

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

Sky Safari (operates until 8:15 p.m. — weather-dependent) – Experience Wild Lights from above!
$4 plus tax
Santa presented by Racine Danish Kringles

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.
Selfie Spots for Dogs

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

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

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, Wild Finds Scavenger Hunt

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!