Celebrate the Magic of the Season at Winter Wonderland!
November 22 – December 28 | Friday – Sunday | 5 PM – Close
Celebrate the Magic of the Season at Winter Wonderland!
November 22 – December 28 | Friday – Sunday | 5 PM – Close
Winter Wonderland is back at Southwick’s Zoo; brighter, bigger, and more enchanting than ever!
This year’s event transforms the zoo into a glowing holiday spectacular with more than 4 million shimmering lights that bring the season to life for visitors of all ages.
With larger-than-life dazzling displays, the event promises to leave visitors in awe. From enchanting polar bear displays to the shimmering lights around every corner, this experience is a must-see for everyone!
Winter Wonderland is back at Southwick’s Zoo; brighter, bigger, and more enchanting than ever!
This year’s event transforms the Zoo into a glowing holiday spectacular with more than 4 million shimmering lights that bring the season to life for visitors of all ages.
With larger-than-life dazzling displays, the event promises to leave visitors in awe. From enchanting polar bear displays to the shimmering lights around every corner, this experience is a must-see for everyone!
Exciting Festive Experiences
Meet & Greet with Santa
Up through Christmas Eve, step into the magic of the season and meet Santa himself! Share your holiday wishes, snap a photo, and enjoy a moment straight out of a winter fairytale.
Ride the Holiday Train
Board the Holiday Train for a one-of-a-kind ride through Winter Wonderland. Take in dazzling lights across the park and keep an eye out for a certain green, grumpy guest along the way.
Holiday Shows
Catch festive performances throughout the evening, featuring music, magic, and enchanting sing-along moments. With multiple showtimes nightly, there’s always something merry to enjoy.
Exciting Festive Experiences
Meet & Greet with Santa
Up through Christmas Eve, step into the magic of the season and meet Santa himself! Share your holiday wishes, snap a photo, and enjoy a moment straight out of a winter fairytale.
Ride the Holiday Train
Board the Holiday Train for a one-of-a-kind ride through Winter Wonderland. Take in dazzling lights across the park and keep an eye out for a certain green, grumpy guest along the way.
Holiday Shows
Catch festive performances throughout the evening, featuring music, magic, and enchanting sing-along moments. With multiple showtimes nightly, there’s always something merry to enjoy.
Animals You May See
Winter Wonderland is all about sparkling lights and festive displays, but a few animal friends may still make an appearance. While many animals are moved indoors for the season, some remain on exhibit and may choose to venture outside during the evening.
Because this is a winter, nighttime event, animal sightings can vary based on weather and temperature. Guests are welcome to visit the outdoor Petting Zoo and step inside the Rainforest Room.
**Larger than life displays, Meet & Greets with Santa, the Holiday Train and Shows & Entertainment, plus visits to the petting zoo and rainforest room are all included with general admission.**
Animals You May See
Winter Wonderland is all about sparkling lights and festive displays, but a few animal friends may still make an appearance. While many animals are moved indoors for the season, some remain on exhibit and may choose to venture outside during the evening.
Because this is a winter, nighttime event, animal sightings can vary based on weather and temperature. Guests are welcome to visit the outdoor Petting Zoo and step inside the Rainforest Room.
**Larger than life displays, Meet & Greets with Santa, the Holiday Train and Shows & Entertainment, plus visits to the petting zoo and rainforest room are all included with general admission.**
Event Pricing:
Admission Purchased at the Gate:
Adults: $25
Children (3-12): $15
2 and Under: Free
Admission Purchased Online:
Adults: $21
Children (3-12): $13
2 and Under: Free
Parking:
Parking is always FREE at Southwick’s Zoo!
Event Pricing:
Admission Purchased at the Gate:
Adults: $25
Children (3-12): $15
2 and Under: Free
Admission Purchased Online:
Adults: $21
Children (3-12): $13
2 and Under: Free
Parking:
Parking is always FREE at Southwick’s Zoo!
Carousel Rides Under the Winter Lights
Add a little extra wonder to your visit with a spin on the Within the Wild Carousel. Featuring beautifully crafted animals and a festive nighttime glow, it’s a charming ride that brings classic carousel magic to Winter Wonderland.
Carousel tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the carousel.
Carousel Rides Under the Winter Lights
Add a little extra wonder to your visit with a spin on the Within the Wild Carousel. Featuring beautifully crafted animals and a festive nighttime glow, it’s a charming ride that brings classic carousel magic to Winter Wonderland.
Carousel tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the carousel.
Sip, Snack, and Savor the Season
Start with perfectly roasted s’mores by one of our cozy fire pits, then explore festive treats and seasonal favorites throughout the park. From fresh-baked holiday cookies and hand-rolled pretzels at the Snack Factory to spiked hot cocoa at Frosty’s Bar and classic kettle corn along the way, there are flavors to fit every taste bud.
Looking to enjoy a sit-down meal during your visit? Galliford’s Restaurant & Tavern is open during Winter Wonderland, offering a cozy place to dine throughout the event. For current menus and hours, please visit gallifords.com. Due to high event attendance, reservations are strongly encouraged to help minimize wait times.
Sip, Snack, and Savor the Season
Start with perfectly roasted s’mores by one of our cozy fire pits, then explore festive treats and seasonal favorites throughout the park. From fresh-baked holiday cookies and hand-rolled pretzels at the Snack Factory to spiked hot cocoa at Frosty’s Bar and classic kettle corn along the way, there are flavors to fit every taste bud.
Looking to enjoy a sit-down meal during your visit? Galliford’s Restaurant & Tavern is open during Winter Wonderland, offering a cozy place to dine throughout the event. For current menus and hours, please visit gallifords.com. Due to high event attendance, reservations are strongly encouraged to help minimize wait times.
Holiday Shopping at the Purple Peacock Gift Shop
The Purple Peacock offers FREE gift wrapping all season long!
Step inside the Purple Peacock Gift Shop and discover a treasure trove of holiday cheer. From festive décor and cozy apparel to plush friends and Southwick’s Zoo favorites, it’s the perfect place to find something special for everyone on your list.
*Zoo or Winter Wonderland admission is not required to shop at the Purple Peacock. The gift shop entrance is located to the left of the zoo’s main entrance. Look for the purple doors.
Holiday Shopping at the Purple Peacock Gift Shop
The Purple Peacock offers FREE gift wrapping all season long!
Step inside the Purple Peacock Gift Shop and discover a treasure trove of holiday cheer. From festive décor and cozy apparel to plush friends and Southwick’s Zoo favorites, it’s the perfect place to find something special for everyone on your list.
*Zoo or Winter Wonderland admission is not required to shop at the Purple Peacock. The gift shop entrance is located to the left of the zoo’s main entrance. Look for the purple doors.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question that you do not see answered below, please email guestservices@southwickszoo.com.
Do I need to purchase tickets online? Can I purchase tickets at the door?
Winter Wonderland guests can purchase tickets online or at the entrance.
I have unused zoo admission tickets. Can I use them to visit Winter Wonderland?
Zoo admission tickets cannot be used for Winter Wonderland. Winter Wonderland requires its own separate ticket purchased either online or in person. There is not an EARTH Member discount for Winter Wonderland admission.
Can I show my ticket on my phone?
You can show your ticket on your phone, however, for faster entry, we strongly recommend printing your ticket out.
What happens if it rains or snows? Can I reschedule my ticket if needed?
Please visit our website at www.southwickszoo.com or our Facebook page for updates if weather conditions are severe.
If you need to reschedule your ticket, please email guestservices@southwickszoo.com and include: 1.) your Reservation ID number, 2.) your original ticket date and time, and 3.) your new desired ticket date and time.
You may also reach our Guest Services calling 1-800-258-9182 ext 211. If you call outside of hours of operation or are unable to reach a zoo employee, please leave a message, and Guest Services will return your call when available.
Do we have to bring a stroller, or can we rent one?
You can bring your own stroller. Rentals are not available for special events including Winter Wonderland.
Can I show my ticket on my phone?
You can show your ticket on your phone, however, for faster entry, we strongly recommend printing your ticket out.
What can I expect at Winter Wonderland?
Guests can expect to have a magical night with friends & family during Winter Wonderland! Guests will encounter over four million dazzling lights and light displays.
Will the gift shop be open?
Yes, the Purple Peacock Gift Shop will be open for holiday shopping!
Will there be food available to purchase?
Yes! The Kringle Café is open for concessions and special bakery items. Galliford’s Restaurant & Tavern will also be open for on-site dining and takeout. Visit www.gallifords.com for current hours and menus.
Will I see any animals?
Most animals are moved indoors and off exhibit during the winter, and the focus of Winter Wonderland is holiday lights and displays. Animals that are not moved off exhibit have the option to go indoors at any time and some may be kept indoors in the event of very cold temperatures or snow. As this is a winter and nighttime event, we cannot guarantee what animals will be outside and viewable during Winter Wonderland.
Can I bring my pets?
Pets are not allowed onto zoo grounds, so they CANNOT be brought to Winter Wonderland. The only exception is service dogs.
