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Your guide to New Year at San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo comes alive each New Year with extended hours, illuminated trails, and festive entertainment for the whole family. Most New Year’s Eve activities are included with general admission, but some special experiences may require separate tickets.

What to expect at San Diego Zoo during New Year

San Diego Zoo entrance with giraffe-shaped Christmas lights and palm trees at dusk.

Experience the magic of New Year’s Eve at San Diego Zoo, where wildlife and celebration meet under the stars.

  • Extended hours: The zoo stays open late on New Year’s Eve, giving you a rare chance to explore animal habitats after dark and see nocturnal creatures in action.
  • Wildlife light displays: Wander through beautifully illuminated trails and themed zones, with thousands of sparkling lights creating a festive atmosphere.
  • Live entertainment: Enjoy live music, DJ sets, and roaming performers throughout the evening, with family-friendly shows scheduled on main stages.
  • Special animal presentations: Catch unique keeper talks and animal encounters, highlighting how the zoo’s residents celebrate the changing seasons.
  • Countdown celebration: Join the early “midnight” countdown (often at 9pm) with music, confetti, and a lively party vibe-perfect for families with younger children.
  • Festive food and drinks: Seasonal treats, hot chocolate, and themed snacks are available at food stands and cafes across the zoo.
  • Photo ops and souvenirs: Find New Year-themed photo backdrops and limited-edition merchandise to remember your visit.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the animals!

Ring in the New Year at San Diego Zoo with after-dark wildlife encounters, live music, and dazzling lights. Most festivities are included with your ticket, but book early for special tours.

Visitors viewing penguins swimming in an aquarium at San Diego Zoo.
Reserve your spot for New Year’s visit now!

San Diego Zoo New Year Events

Tree adorned with colorful Christmas lights at San Diego Zoo.

Wildlife light walk

  • Dates: December 31
  • Timings: 4pm–8pm
  • Location: Throughout the zoo’s main paths
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Stroll through the zoo’s illuminated walkways, featuring creative light installations and animal-themed displays. Perfect for families and photo opportunities
DJ mixing music during Evening Panorama Cruise in Frankfurt.

Live music & DJ party

  • Dates: December 31
  • Timings: 5pm–8pm
  • Location: Front Plaza and Urban Jungle area
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Enjoy upbeat performances from local bands and DJs, with a dance area for kids and adults to celebrate together
New Year's Eve party on a boat near Ain Dubai with people celebrating and confetti falling.

Early “Midnight” countdown

  • Dates: December 31
  • Timings: 8:50pm–9pm
  • Location: Front Plaza Stage
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Gather for a family-friendly countdown to the New Year, complete with confetti, music, and a festive atmosphere-timed for younger guests
Lions resting at Vinpearl Night Safari, Vietnam.

Animal encounters after dark

  • Dates: December 31
  • Timings: 4:30pm–7:30pm (various times)
  • Location: Discovery Outpost and Africa Rocks
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Meet animal ambassadors and hear from keepers about nocturnal behaviors and how animals adapt to seasonal changes
Hot chocolate with whipped cream in glass mugs, Christmas lights in background.

Specialty food stalls

  • Dates: December 31
  • Timings: 4pm–8pm
  • Location: Safari Kitchen, Hua Mei Café, and select kiosks
  • Included with admission: No (food purchase required)
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Try New Year’s themed snacks, hot drinks, and limited-edition treats available at food stands throughout the zoo
Glow-in-the-dark skeleton acrobat juggling pins at San Diego Zoo event.

Glow merchandise booths

  • Dates: December 31
  • Timings: 4pm–8pm
  • Location: Main entrance and central plaza
  • Included with admission: No (purchase required)
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Pick up glow sticks, light-up accessories, and exclusive New Year souvenirs to add sparkle to your celebration

Visitor information

Visitors entering the San Diego Zoo under a decorated entrance sign.
  • Zoo opening hours: 9am–8pm (last entry at 7pm) on December 31
  • New Year’s Eve festivities: 4pm–8pm
  • Countdown event: 8:50pm–9pm
  • Best time to visit: Arrive by late afternoon to enjoy daytime animal exhibits, then stay for the evening lights and entertainment. Early evening (4pm–6pm) is less crowded for families with young children.
San Diego Zoo timings
passengers in car
  • Address: San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 | [Find on Maps]
  • By trolley: Take the San Diego Trolley to City College Station, then bus 7 to Park Blvd & Zoo Pl (10-min walk to entrance)
  • By bus: Routes 7, 215, and Rapid 215 stop at Park Blvd & Zoo Pl
  • By car: From I-5 or CA-163, follow signs to Balboa Park and Zoo Place
  • Parking: Free parking is available in the zoo’s main lot; overflow parking in Balboa Park lots. Arrive early on New Year’s Eve for best availability
Directions to San Diego Zoo
Man placing bag in locker at tourist attraction.
  • Restrooms: Located throughout the zoo, including main entrance, Elephant Odyssey, and Africa Rocks
  • Lockers: Available near the entrance; small and large sizes for a fee
  • Stroller/Wheelchair Rental: Rentals available at the entrance; strollers ($16+), wheelchairs ($16+), and ECVs ($60+)
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi throughout the zoo-connect to “SanDiegoZooGuest”
  • Gift Shop: Main Zoo Store at the entrance, plus smaller shops in each zone
  • Water Fountains: Available at all major restrooms and food courts
  • Dining Options: Multiple cafes and food stands; see Dine section for details
Shop at San Diego Zoo
Man pushing woman in wheelchair along Jardin Secret path.
  • Wheelchair access: Most paths are wheelchair accessible; some steep grades in select areas
  • Step-free routes: Maps available at the entrance and online; accessible tram available
  • Wheelchair/ECV rental: Available at the entrance on a first-come basis
  • Accessible restrooms: Located throughout the zoo
  • Service animals: Permitted throughout the zoo; check guidelines for restricted animal areas
  • Hearing/sensory aids: Assistive listening devices available for select shows; sensory kits available at Guest Services
  • New Year’s events: All main festivities are wheelchair accessible; some animal encounters may have limited access
Child holding a camera at KidZania Singapore.
  • Event entry: Most New Year’s activities are included with admission; some specialty experiences may require a separate ticket
  • Supervision: Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times
  • Food and drink: Outside food is allowed in designated picnic areas; alcohol is not permitted
  • Photography: Non-commercial photography is welcome; flash and tripods may be restricted in animal areas
  • Glow items: Only zoo-approved glow merchandise is allowed for safety
  • General etiquette: Respect animals and habitats, follow staff instructions, and keep noise to a minimum near exhibits
  • Payment: Most vendors accept card and contactless payments; some may accept cash
Family enjoying pizza outdoors, child smiling with a slice in hand.
  • Safari Kitchen: Family-friendly meals, burgers, salads, and kids’ options; located near the main entrance (~$10–$18 per meal)
  • Hua Mei Café: Asian-inspired dishes, noodles, and rice bowls; located in Panda Canyon (~$12–$20)
  • Sabertooth Grill: Fresh sandwiches, salads, and snacks; located in Elephant Odyssey (~$10–$16)
  • Albert’s Restaurant: Full-service dining with indoor and outdoor seating; reservations recommended for New Year’s Eve (~$20–$35 per entrée)
  • Seasonal treats: Hot chocolate, churros, and festive snacks available at pop-up stands during New Year’s festivities
San Diego Zoo food spots
Extended hours and special shows-plan ahead!

San Diego Zoo stays open late for New Year’s Eve, with unique entertainment and animal presentations. Arrive early to enjoy all the festivities and secure your spot for limited-capacity events.

Frequently asked questions about San Diego Zoo New Year events

Can I book tickets just for the New Year events without a general admission ticket?

No, all New Year’s Eve festivities are included with standard zoo admission. Some special experiences or tours may require an additional ticket. Check your options here.

Is there a capacity limit for the events?

Yes, the zoo may limit entry for safety and comfort, especially for evening events. Arrive early to guarantee entry and access to popular activities.

Are the New Year events suitable for children?

Absolutely. The celebration is family-friendly, with early countdowns, live music, and animal encounters designed for all ages.

Will the events continue in poor weather?

Most activities proceed rain or shine, but some outdoor entertainment may be modified or moved indoors in case of heavy rain. Check the zoo’s website for updates.

What happens if an event is canceled and I’ve already booked my ticket?

If the zoo cancels a ticketed event, you’ll be notified about refund or rescheduling options. General admission tickets are typically non-refundable.

Can I leave and re-enter the zoo during New Year’s Eve?

Yes, re-entry is allowed on the same day with a hand stamp. Keep your ticket and stamp for easy access.

Are costumes or festive attire allowed for New Year’s Eve?

Festive hats and accessories are welcome, but full-face masks and costumes that may frighten animals or guests are not permitted.

Is there a fireworks show at San Diego Zoo for New Year’s Eve?

No, the zoo does not host fireworks to avoid disturbing the animals. The celebration focuses on lights, music, and family activities.