Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Sparkles with Return of Wild Winter Lights Presented by NOPEC

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is once again transforming into a dazzling winter wonderland for the seventh straight year with the return of Wild Winter Lights presented by NOPEC. Beginning November 18, guests of all ages can celebrate the magic of the holiday season with over 1.5 million lights and the return of holiday favorites.

Wild Winter Lights offers visitors a chance to explore an immersive trail of dazzling holiday-themed areas including Colorful Forest, Magical Storybook, Glittering Galaxy, Swan Lake, Frosty Lane presented by Meijer, the Conservation Trail, and of course, Santa’s North Pole Lodge presented by CrossCountry Mortgage, where families can meet Santa and capture the perfect holiday photo.

Guests can choose to experience Wild Winter Lights on foot or from the warmth of their vehicle on select nights during the Wild Winter Lights Drive-Through.

“Wild Winter Lights is a cherished tradition that brings our community together to celebrate the season in a truly magical way,” said Kelly Manderfield, Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer. “This year’s event is brighter and more festive than ever, with new displays and returning favorites sure to make memories bright. We are incredibly grateful to our presenting and community partners who make this event possible.”

Highlights of this year’s festivities include:

• A mesmerizing musical light show featuring a towering 50-foot holiday tree
• Free carousel rides, presented by MetroHealth
• Festive costumed characters and model train displays
• Delicious seasonal treats like Jack Frost Donuts, Kernels by Chrissie, and classic hot chocolate

"This is the seventh consecutive year NOPEC has sponsored the magical transformation of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland. Wild Winter Lights has become an annual tradition that brings families together, inspires joy, and creates lasting holiday memories for guests of all ages. Supporting accessible, family-friendly experiences like this is a testament to NOPEC's commitment to giving back to the communities we serve,” said Chuck Keiper, NOPEC Executive Director and CEO.

New this year, the Zoo will host its first-ever Ugly Sweater 5K presented by CrossCountry Mortgage on Sunday, December 7 at 8:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to wear their most festive holiday attire as they race through the Zoo grounds. Pre-registration is $30 and includes a custom t-shirt, finisher medal, post-race refreshments, and admission to continue exploring the zoo after crossing the finish line.

Wild Winter Lights runs from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on select evenings from Tuesday, November 18, through Tuesday, December 30.

Tickets are on sale now at FutureForWildlife.org/lights:

• Advance member tickets: $24, or a 4-pack for $70
• Advance non-member tickets: $27, or a 4-pack for $80
• Drive-through tickets: $49 per vehicle (members), $59 per vehicle (non-members)
• Children under 2: Free
• Limited same-day tickets available online or on-site at an increased price. On-site ticket sales will end at 8:30 p.m.

Wild Winter Lights is presented by NOPEC and supported by generous community partners, including CrossCountry Mortgage, Meijer and MetroHealth.

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