Zoolights Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zoolights a walk-through or drive-through display?

It’s a walk-through event. Parking is free.

Do I need timed tickets? Do children need timed tickets?

Yes, all Zoolights guests, ages three and older, and members need to buy timed online tickets in advance. Children aged two and younger do not need timed tickets.

I do not see the time/day I want to purchase tickets. Will more tickets be added? 

No. Zoolights is a limited-capacity event. If you do not see your preferred date/time, then it is sold out. Please choose another date and time.

If I buy a membership, do I have access to more Zoolights entry times? 

No. Members do not receive access to more dates and times. However, members do receive a discounted price on Zoolights tickets.

Can I buy tickets in person at the Zoo front gate?  

No. Zoolights tickets are only available online. Tickets are date and time-specific to ensure the best possible experience for our guests.

What if I arrive late for my timed entry ticket?

You can enter the Zoo on the date and time of your ticket or any time after your assigned time on the same night. The last entry for Zoolights is at 9 p.m.

If it rains, can I get a refund? 

Zoolights is a rain-or-shine event. There will be no ticket refunds.

*In the event of a Zoo closure due to severe weather or emergency, we will contact all ticket-holders with rescheduling or refund options.

Are you selling BECU discounted admission tickets for Zoolights?

Yes! To receive the BECU discount, BECU members need to buy tickets through our BECU ticket page and use their BECU card at checkout. Get your BECU Discounted Tickets.

Is there a military or Pierce County resident discount available for Zoolights?

No. Military and Pierce County resident discounts are only available for daytime visit admissions. 

Are you selling Wild Access discounted admission tickets for Zoolights?

We do NOT offer Wild Access discounted admission tickets for Zoolights. However, Zoo members with Wild Access memberships can buy timed online Zoolights tickets at the member price. Learn more about Wild Access.

Who is covered for member-discounted Zoolights tickets?

You can buy member-discounted tickets for individuals covered through your membership, including named adults, dependents/grandchildren on household/grandparent levels, and guests on deluxe or plus-level memberships. More membership information here.

I have a deluxe or plus-level membership that allows three guests each time I visit. Can I get discounted Zoolights tickets for them as well?

Yes. See above.

We are members of a reciprocal zoo. Can we get free or discounted Zoolights tickets?

No. Zoolights is a special event and is not included in the reciprocal agreement.

Are wheelchair/scooter/stroller rentals available, and where do I find them?

Yes. Rentals are located either inside the Zoo front gate entrance or at the carousel to the right. All rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more.

Can we dine at the Zoo?

Yes. Our Plaza Cafe is open for dinner, drinks, and snacks to go. Other stands for snacks and drinks may be open around the Zoo.

Is the gift shop open?

Yes. Our gift shop has a wonderful selection of unique gifts for everyone on your holiday list.

Is the carousel open? 

Yes. Our antique carousel is open every night during Zoolights.

Can we feed the goats at Zoolights? Can I see other animals at Zoolights?

No, our goats and other animals will be asleep in their bedrooms during Zoolights. Like people, animals do best when they have consistent bedtimes and get plenty of sleep. We encourage you to visit during the day to feed the goats and see the more than 9,700 other animals that live at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

Are the aquariums open during Zoolight hours?

No. The Pacific Seas Aquarium and Tropical Reef Aquarium are closed during Zoolights. Explore both aquariums during our daytime hours.

Can I bring my pet to Zoolights?

No. Pets are not allowed on Zoo grounds, with the exception of dogs on designated Dog Nights at Zoolights evenings only. Learn about Dog Nights at Zoolights. We welcome guests with disabilities who use service animals as determined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Washington Administrative Code during any zoo visit. Please read our Service Animal Admission Procedures to learn more.