The Gift of Lights, a special holiday lights event, returns to the Potawatomi Zoo every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 5-9 pm from November 27 to December 20.

“The Zoo has taken precautions to ensure the health and safety of guests attending this event, and we’re excited to give people the opportunity to be outside with friends and family this holiday season,” says Josh Sisk, executive director of the Potawatomi Zoo. “Our staff have done an amazing job setting up even more lights and decorations this year, and we can’t wait for our visitors and members to share the joy of seeing the lights around the Zoo.”

Regular admission for The Gift of Lights is $10 for adults ages 15 and up, $5 for children 3-14, and babies 2 and under are free. Admission for Zoo Members is $7 for adults and $3 for children. Due to ongoing concerns about COVID-19, the Zoo is requiring timed entry tickets this year, available for purchase on the Zoo’s website.

Santa will be at the Red Barn every night from 6-8 pm, and special guest Elsa will visit the Zoo on Sundays from 6-8 pm.

The Zoo Train tickets are $4 (over 2 years old) and include a lighted route, fun Christmas present and hot chocolate sample. The Zoo train will run as weather permits. The carousel will not be running in winter.

The Congo Café will be open with hot chocolate, coffee, and a limited menu. The Otter Outpost will be open with snacks, beverages, and special seasonal adult drinks. The Round Barn Monkey Bar will be open as weather permits with seasonal adult drinks and snacks as well.

The Zoo Gift Shop is open from 5-9 pm during The Gift of Lights in the new entrance building. The Gift Shop is also open 10 am to 2 pm Mondays through Saturdays, starting December 1.

Due to health and safety guidelines, masks are required for visitors age 8 and over upon entry and when social distancing is not possible. The Learning Center will be not open. For the health and safety of our animals, some of the outside exhibits are closed after dark and in cold weather.

The Gift of Lights is sponsored by Indiana Michigan Power and WNDU.