There’s no doubt about it; the most magical time of year in Cleveland is Christmastime. The city transforms with the addition of holiday lights, and all sorts of splendor surrounds even the most mundane businesses and homes. This beauty is accented by the presence of freshly fallen snow… and, thanks to an epic event at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, some positively breathtaking holiday lights. Prepare to experience holiday splendor at the Cleveland Zoo’s holiday light show. Here’s everything you need to know about this mesmerizing Christmas lights display in Cleveland.

Wild Winter Lights will take place from Nov. 14 through Dec. 30, 2023. Both drive-thru and walk-thru options are available for guests this year. 

Once upon a time, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo turned into a winter wonderland each Christmas season.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo / Facebook
Back in the day, locals used to bundle up in their coziest clothes and head to the zoo to check out holiday lights. The event, though beloved, was discontinued in 2004.
In recent years, this beloved holiday event has returned. And with each new holiday season, it just keeps getting better!
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo / Facebook
In 2023, for example, there will be two brand-new interactive light shows, one of which includes a 50-foot tree!
Wild Winter Lights will encompass more than a dozen zones on the zoo campus, decking them out in lights and holiday displays.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo / Facebook
Visitors can expect to see more than one million glittering lights at Wild Winter Lights.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo / Facebook

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The event is dreamed up to cater to families and grown-ups alike, and it is sure to become a cherished annual tradition.
Courtesy Of Cleveland Metroparks/Kyle Lanzer
Whether you're looking to get out with the kids or to take a romantic stroll with your honey, this event is sure to delight.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo / Facebook
And there are so many activities for all ages to enjoy, too! Visitors can chat with Santa, cozy up at the S’more Safari campfire, and get into the spirit of Christmas just in time for the holiday season.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo/Facebook
And, of course, the zoo's resident critters will be out and about in their enclosures to enjoy the festivities.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo/Facebook
The event happens in the evenings, so some critters may have retired after a busy day. However, the animals that stay awake to greet guests will surely be enthralled by the festivities!
You'll quickly discover that the holidays are always magical at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo / Facebook

For more information about Wild Winter Lights in Cleveland, including dates, times, and ticketing information, be sure to check out the official Cleveland MetroParks website. And don’t forget to wear your coziest winter jacket for the event!

This incredible light show in Cleveland is one of the very best Christmas events in Ohio, and it’s no secret why. The Cleveland Zoo’s holiday light show is full of family-friendly fun and also offers plenty for adults to enjoy. Who will you be taking on this awesome adventure? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!

This event promises to be a great time. It should absolutely be added to your winter bucket list!

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Christmas In Cleveland

Beth C. | November 13, 2023

What are some of the best winter activities and attractions in Ohio?

Ohio in the winter may be cold, but you'd be remiss to stay inside all season long! Instead, check out our list of some of the best winter activities and attractions in Ohio:

  • PNC Festival of Lights
  • WinterLand
  • Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
  • Coney Island's Night of Lights
  • Easton's Holiday Happenings
  • Findlay, Ohio
  • Toledo, Ohio
  • Medina, Ohio
  • The Chalet Tobogganing
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • Old Man's Cave in Hocking Hills State Park
  • MetroParks Ice Rink

 

You can learn more about each of the activities and adventures listed above when you check out our full guide to spending winter in Ohio.

What are some winter hiking trails in Ohio?

The thought of going hiking in Ohio during the winter is intimidating, but it can also be a rejuvenating experience. Below you'll find a list of picturesque trails in Ohio perfect for winter hiking:

  • Old Man's Cave Loop (Hocking Hills State Park)
  • Horseshoe Falls Trail (Ceasar Creek State Park)
  • South Chagrin Reservation Trails (Cleveland Metroparks)
  • The Buckeye Trail (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
  • East Cohasset Hike/Bike Trail (Mill Creek Park)
  • Clear Creek Metropark Trails (Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks)
  • Bedford Reservation Trails (Cleveland Metroparks)
  • Towpath Trail (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
  • Possum Creek Metropark Trails (Five Rivers Metroparks)
  • Clifton Gorge Trails (John Bryan State Park)

 

Have you tried out any of these trails before? You can learn more when you check out our list of the best winter-friendly hikes in Ohio.

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Featured Addresses
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA