Zoolights FAQ

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.

Are you selling BECU discounted admission tickets for Zoolights?

Yes! To receive the $2 discount, members need to purchase tickets through our BECU ticket page and use their BECU card at checkout.

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 Wild Access discounted admission tickets for Zoolights?

We do NOT offer Wild Access discounted admission tickets for Zoolights. Members with Wild Access memberships can buy timed online Zoolights tickets at the Zoo 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-level memberships. More membership information here.

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

Yes. See above.

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.

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

Yes. Rentals are located inside the carousel to the right after you enter the front gate. All rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more.

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.

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 I see any animals during Zoolights?

Zoo animals will be asleep in their bedrooms behind the scenes during Zoolights. However, you can meet and pet goats at Kids’ Zone.

Are the aquariums open during Zoolight hours?

No. Both the Pacific Seas Aquarium and South Pacific Aquarium are closed during Zoolights. Explore the Pacific Seas Aquarium during our daytime hours. Our South Pacific Aquarium is temporarily closed for restoration and repair and will reopen in spring.