Lights of the Wild

Hattiesburg Zoo’s “Lights of the Wild”, Presented by PriorityOne Bank Returns with Dazzling Displays, Holiday Magic and New Christmas Attractions
The magic of Christmas comes alive at the Hattiesburg Zoo as the beloved holiday tradition, Lights of the Wild, returns for 12 spectacular nights in December. With breathtaking illuminated displays, larger-than-life illuminated lanterns, festive entertainment and exciting holiday attractions, Lights of the Wild promises an unforgettable Christmas experience for families and friends of all ages.
This year's celebration will feature a magnificent, oversized Christmas tree towering over the Zoo's Splash, creating a dazzling centerpiece for the holiday festivities. Surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights and beautiful holiday decorations, the Hattiesburg Zoo will once again transform into a magical winter wonderland filled with the sights, sounds and spirit of Christmas.
Lights of the Wild will take place December 4–6, 11–13 and 18–23, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. nightly.Tickets are $16 when purchased online and $18 at the gate.  Children under the age of two are admitted free, and Hattiesburg Zoo season passes do not apply to this special event.
Tickets may be purchased online at https://hattiesburgzoo.connectngo.com/en/tag/special-events. Guests must select a specific night when purchasing tickets.
One of the highlights of this year's event will be the Polar Express Train and the Grinch Train, bringing two very different kinds of Christmas magic to the Hattiesburg Zoo. Whether guests are ready to embrace the wonder of the holiday season aboard the Polar Express or enjoy a little mischievous Christmas fun with the Grinch, these festive train experiences are sure to become favorites for visitors of all ages.
Throughout the Zoo, guests will discover a spectacular collection of glowing animal lanterns, oversized illuminated flowers and plants, and enchanting holiday scenes. From brilliant displays inspired by wildlife to traditional Christmas favorites, every turn offers another opportunity to experience the wonder of the season and capture memorable holiday photographs.
Guests will also enjoy Story Time with Mrs. Claus in the Asbury Discovery Center, visits and photos with Santa Claus in the Africa Pavilion, and special animal encounters throughout the Zoo. Guests can also enjoy unlimited rides on the Zoo's holiday trains and the Candy Cane Carousel throughout the evening.
Children will have the opportunity to share their Christmas wishes at the Letters to Santa Station, located inside the Asbury Discovery Center. Young visitors can write their letters and send them directly to the North Pole for Santa's consideration. Of course, whether those wishes come true may depend on which side of Santa's Naughty or Nice Listthey find themselves!
And while South Mississippi may not always deliver a white Christmas, the Hattiesburg Zoo certainly will! Snow will fall every night of Lights of the Wild, giving children and adults alike the chance to experience a little winter magic at the Splash Pad.  With the Zoo's oversized Christmas tree illuminating the Splash Pad, the falling snow will create an especially magical setting for holiday photographs and family memories.
No Christmas celebration would be complete without delicious seasonal treats. Holiday food and beverage stations located throughout the Zoo will offer festive favorites, dinner options, sweet treats and seasonal beverages, giving guests plenty of opportunities to enjoy the flavors of the season while exploring the illuminated displays.
With its combination of spectacular lanterns, Christmas traditions, festive train experiences, falling snow and family-friendly entertainment, Lights of the Wild offers families a wonderful opportunity to slow down, spend time together and make lasting holiday memories.
A nightly ticket capacity limit will be in place, and admission is not guaranteed at the gate. Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance to secure their preferred date. Lights of the Wild is an outdoor, rain-or-shine event, and tickets are non-refundable. Guests should follow the Hattiesburg Zoo's Facebook and Instagram pages for additional information and any event updates.  
PriorityOne Bank proudly returns as the Presenting Sponsor of the Hattiesburg Zoo's 2026 Lights of the Wild.