WildLights Spectacular Returns to the Zoo

PALM DESERT/INDIAN WELLS —  The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens will light up the desert this holiday season with WildLights Spectacular, a magnificent light display presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, select evenings Wednesday, November 27 through December 28, from 6 to 9 p.m.

Now celebrating its 27th year, WildLights will amaze guests with over a million twinkling LED lights and festive activities, transforming The Living Desert into a luminescent winter wonderland for all to enjoy.

“The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a magical place and even more so in the glow of holiday lights,” said Allen Monroe, President/CEO of The Living Desert. “The enchanting assortment of illuminated animal sculptures – many representing species found at the Zoo – sets this event apart from many other holiday traditions. As with all events at the Zoo, WildLights not only helps support our mission of saving endangered species, it makes for wonderful family memories.”

Guests are encouraged to take in the lights and sights while enjoying lively entertainment and holiday activities, fun for all ages. Visit with Santa, enjoy the sparkling tunnel of lights synchronized to music, gaze at the life-sized, animal lanterns and holiday-themed G-scale model train display, and create a take-home ornament. New this year, a giant 15-foot illuminated present will serve as the perfect backdrop for photos.

Throughout the evening, animated light shows will be set to music around the Zoo.

Visitors also will be dazzled by animal encounters, educational keeper chats, and many of the animals of Africa including giraffe, cheetah, and African wild dog.

For an additional fee, attendees can take a spin on the carousel, make s’mores, and ride the Polar Express train ride that transports them through a snowy, sparkling wonderland.

Seasonal refreshments, holiday spirits, WildLights souvenirs, and zoo-themed holiday gifts will be available for purchase.

WildLights is presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation and is sponsored by HiTech Lights.

WildLights Spectacular takes place Nov. 27, 29-30; and Dec. 6-7, 13-14, 20-24, 26-28. Event hours are 6 – 9 p.m. with last entry at 8:30 p.m. Admission is $14 per person; $12 for members, military (with ID); $10 for children ages 3-12 and free for those under 3. Some attractions require additional fees. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here or at the main admissions gate. For more information, visit www.LivingDesert.org or call (760) 346-5694.