See the Detroit Zoo in a Whole New Light

The Detroit Zoo will light up the night this holiday season with Wild Lights, a spectacular light display presented by Bank of America. The event will be bigger and brighter than ever as more than five million twinkling LED lights brighten the evening sky and illuminate buildings, trees and more than 100 animal sculptures on a trail through the front half of the Zoo.

“The Detroit Zoo is a magical place in winter and even more so in the glow of holiday lights,” said Ron Kagan, Detroit Zoological Society Executive Director and CEO. “The enchanting assortment of illuminated exotic animal sculptures – many representing species found at the Zoo – sets this display apart from others and celebrates wildlife.”

Wild Lights guests can take in the lights and sights while enjoying holiday entertainment and activities for kids of all ages. The event will feature a musical light show, ice carving, green tips, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition and arts and crafts. Guest will have the opportunity to paint dog bandanas and make felt cat toys to be donated to shelter animals.

“The Polar Express 4-D Experience” will be shown exclusively during Wild Lights at the Wild Adventure Zone’s 4-D Theater. The 14-minute adaption of the feature film starring Tom Hanks tells the tale of a doubting young boy who takes a train ride to the North Pole and discovers that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Tickets are $5 with Wild Lights admission; children under 2 are admitted free.

Seasonal refreshments, holiday spirits, photos with “Santa Paws” (the Zoo’s polar bear mascot), Carousel rides, Wild Lights souvenirs and zoo-themed holiday gifts will be available for purchase.

Wild Lights will be held for 24 nights, 5:30-9 p.m., November 22-23 and 28-30 and December 5-7, 11-14, 18-23 and 26-31, 2014. Admission is $8 per person in advance and $10 at the gate for ages 2 and older (under 2 admitted free); parking is $6 per car. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.detroitzoo.org/events/wild-lights or at Detroit Zoo main admissions, and will also be available at all Michigan Kroger stores beginning Nov. 5.

The Holden Reptile Conservation Center, Edward Mardigian Sr. River Otter Habitat and Jane and Frank Warchol Beaver Habitat will be open during Wild Lights; the remainder of the animal habitats and buildings will be closed.

Wild Lights is also sponsored by DeMaria/Wharton-Smith, The Home Depot, HoneyBaked Ham Company, IBEW Local 58, Kroger and Royal Oak Ford.

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Photo courtesy of Detroit Zoo.