A Dazzling Holiday Tradition Returns to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo with Wild Winter Lights Presented by NOPEC

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is bringing the magic of the holiday season to life as Wild Winter Lights presented by NOPEC returns for its eighth consecutive year. Beginning November 18, the Zoo will sparkle with more than 1.5 million lights, creating an unforgettable seasonal experience filled with dazzling displays, festive entertainment and holiday fun for the whole family.

Guests can explore a colorful landscape of illuminated holiday-themed areas, including Twinkly Trail, Glittering Galaxy, Winter Fairytale, Gingerbread Lane presented by Meijer, and the Future for Wildlife Trail. The experience also features Santa’s North Pole Lodge presented by CrossCountry Mortgage, where families can meet Santa and capture a special holiday photo.

Visitors can experience the magic on foot or enjoy the displays from the comfort of their vehicles on select evenings during Wild Winter Lights Drive-Through.

“Wild Winter Lights has become a special part of the holiday season for families across Northeast Ohio, offering a chance to make memories and experience the Zoo in a whole new light,” said Kelly Manderfield, Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer. “From the immersive light displays to the festive experiences throughout the Zoo, this event brings people together and celebrates the joy of the season. We’re grateful to NOPEC and our community partners for helping us create a holiday tradition that guests look forward to year after year.”

Highlights of this year’s festivities include:

“Strong communities are built on connections, and events like Wild Winter Lights give us a wonderful reason to come together,” said Chuck Keiper, NOPEC Executive Director and CEO. “As we return for our eighth year as the presenting sponsor of this event, we are proud to support the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the City of Cleveland, and the entire NOPEC member community family with an experience that makes the holiday season a little brighter and family centered.”

The Ugly Sweater 5K, presented by CrossCountry Mortgage, will also return on Sunday, December 6, at 8:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to wear their most festive holiday attire as they race through the Zoo grounds. Advance 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 to 9 p.m. on select evenings from Wednesday, November 18, through Tuesday, December 30.

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

Ticket options include:

Limited same-day tickets are available online or on-site at an increased price. On-site ticket sales 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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