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Your guide to Christmas at San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland each December with Jungle Bells, featuring sparkling lights, live shows, and holiday treats. Most Christmas festivities are included with general admission, though some experiences may require additional tickets.

What to expect at San Diego Zoo during Christmas

Family enjoying Christmas market with festive lights and snow.

You can expect a visit that feels relaxed, festive, and surprisingly cozy for Southern California. The zoo takes on a warm, evening-focused vibe, with glowing lights, cheerful music, and a slower pace that encourages wandering rather than rushing. You’re not just here to see animals; you’re here to enjoy the atmosphere, linger along illuminated paths, and take in a holiday mood. It’s an easy, feel-good way to get into the holiday spirit without needing a traditional winter setting.

San Diego Zoo Christmas events

Jungle Bells

  • Dates: December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (excluding December 24)
  • Timings: Zoo open extended to 8pm; lights & activities generally from dusk (5–5:30pm) to 8pm
  • Location: Balboa Park
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

The zoo sparkles with holiday lights and festive energy as you stroll through live entertainment, cheerful music, glowing pathways, roaming performers, and interactive light areas that bring the season to life.

Santa’s Factory

  • Dates: November 28–30; December 6–7; December 13–14; December 19–23; December 25, 2025
  • Timings: Nov 28–30: Noon–6pm; Dec 6–7 & Dec 13–14: Noon–4pm; Dec 19–23 & Dec 25: Noon–pm
  • Location: Price Education Center, Lost Forest
  • Included with admission: Yes (optional photo purchases extra)
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

Visit Santa in his jungle workshop with festive décor and beloved zoo characters for holiday photos and memorable family moments.

Holiday Light Discovery Trail

  • Dates: December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Timings: 5–8pm
  • Location: Tiger Trail & Lost Forest areas
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

Stroll under shimmering lights and seasonal effects along lush jungle paths that come alive with color after dark.

Holiday Light Celebration Pathway

  • Dates: December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Timings: 5–8pm
  • Location: Front Street & Outback pathways (San Diego Zoo)
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

Walk through a shimmering corridor of lights, festive displays, and seasonal cheer that adds sparkle to your evening visit.

Holiday Light Symphony

  • Dates: December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Timings: 5–8pm
  • Location: Cactus Garden, Upper Africa Rocks
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

Interactive lights and music create a festive symphony of color, inviting you to engage with the display and enjoy joyous seasonal sounds.

Jingle Brass & Reindeer Games

  • Dates: December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Timings: 4:30–7:30pm (varies nightly)
  • Location: Front Street Stage
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

Enjoy lively holiday brass music and interactive games that bring cheerful rhythm and fun to your evening zoo stroll.

Jack Frost Juggler & Holiday Troubadour

  • Dates: December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Timings: 4–7pm (varies)
  • Location: Wildlife Explorers Basecamp
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

Watch dazzling juggling performances and enjoy acoustic holiday tunes that bring festive energy to the zoo’s open spaces.

Toy Shop Hop & Dr. Harry’s Holiday Friends

  • Dates: December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Timings: 3–6pm (varies by show)
  • Location: Urban Jungle & Outback
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: All ages welcome

Meet spirited holiday characters and acrobatic elves as they spread cheer and create playful, festive moments throughout your visit.

Visitor tips

  • Plan to arrive in the afternoon and stay into the evening so you can experience the zoo by daylight and then watch it transform for Jungle Bells after dark.
  • Time your visit between December 19, 2025 and January 4, 2026 if you want the full Jungle Bells experience, as earlier December visits usually feature limited décor but not the complete entertainment lineup.
  • Avoid planning your visit on December 24, as the San Diego Zoo is closed on Christmas Eve.
  • Expect food prices to be higher than average, but look out for seasonal menu items in 2025, which add a fun holiday twist and are only available during Jungle Bells.
  • Use the complimentary shuttle from the Inspiration Point parking lot on weekends and select holiday dates to skip entrance traffic and simplify arrival.
  • Take the guided bus tour earlier in the day, since the last bus departs around 4:00 p.m. and does not run during the evening holiday festivities.
  • Pace yourself and wear comfortable shoes, as Jungle Bells encourages a lot of walking and lingering through illuminated pathways once night falls.

Frequently asked questions about San Diego Zoo Christmas events

No, Jungle Bells and all Christmas activities are included with standard San Diego Zoo admission. There is no separate ticket for the holiday events.

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