Stone Zoo's ZooLights, presented by National Grid, is set to dazzle visitors of all ages this holiday season! This winter wonderland will take you on a one-way stroll through the Zoo, along tree-lined paths lit by twinkling lights. Spanning the Zoo's 26 acres, walk through the beautifully lit Yukon Creek and see black bears, a bald eagle, Canada lynx, arctic foxes, and even reindeer!
This year, experience that magic of several beautiful large-scale lantern displays around the Zoo, lighting up the night sky. While Santa will be too busy at the North Pole to attend ZooLights this year, our bright nights of sparkling lights are sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit!
The same health and safety measures in place for a daytime visit to the Zoo are also in place for ZooLights. These measures include advance online and timed ticketing for a designated day and time, guest capacity limits, one-way paths to control guest flow, clearly designated 6-foot distance markers, enhanced cleaning protocols, and more hand sanitizer stations throughout the Zoo. In accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, visitors (over age 2) to the Zoo are required to wear face coverings.
Are reservations required for entry to the Zoo?
Yes, reservations are required for both members and non-members. Reservations are made for a specific date and time to ensure the Zoo is operating safely within the capacity limit and adhering to the proper social distancing requirements.
- General admission and member reservations are limited each evening. Once capacity is reached, we will be unable to allow entry to any more guests. Please note: Members must purchase tickets for this event. ZooLights admission is not included with membership.
- To make the check-in process as fast and safe as possible, please print your tickets before arriving at the Zoo.
- Guests with general admission will need their reserved tickets (printed or on phone) to check in.
- Guests must arrive at their reserved time slot to ensure capacity is not exceeded. The final time slot for ZooLights is 8:30 p.m.
- If you arrive early for your designated time slot, please wait in your vehicle until 5 minutes before your time slot.
- Please do not arrive after your designated time slot, as capacity within time slots is limited. We ask that all guests make every effort to arrive on time. If you have a concern please call 617-989-2076.
I can't find my pre-purchased tickets in my email.
Use the "order lookup" function in the menu of our ticketing site for access to your tickets. You will need to provide the email address and phone number used during purchase.
If I visit during the day, can I stay for ZooLights?
Each day during ZooLights, the Zoo will close at 3:00 p.m., and re-open at 4:00 p.m. for the event. Guests will be asked to exit when the Zoo closes at 3:00 p.m. so staff can fully clean and prep for the evening event. Guests are welcome to return for ZooLights at 4:00 p.m., and will need to purchase separate tickets for the event.
Will you accept cash as payment?
- Tickets must be purchased ahead of time online. We accept all major credit and debit cards.
- If you need to use cash to purchase a ticket, please call ahead of time at 617-989-2076.
- Cash will be accepted at all of our concession and gift locations.
Are EBT/WIC discounts available?
EBT and WIC cardholders receive discounted, $7 admission per ticket for up to four tickets to ZooLights (does not include general, daytime admission). More details
Are Reciprocal/Military/Teacher discounts available?
Reciprocal/Military/Teacher discounts are not available for ZooLights. For questions, please call 617-989-2076.
Are library passes being honored?
No, library passes will not be honored for ZooLights. Guests who would like to visit during the day may use library passes. For questions, please call 617-989-2076.
Am I required to wear a facial covering?
In accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Zoo visitors are REQUIRED to wear face coverings while visiting the Zoo. Please make sure you have a face covering with you.
This does not apply to children under the age of two or those with specific medical issues. Religious groups and practices may also be exempt.
What if I am late for my reserved time slot?
Capacity within time slots is limited. We ask that all guests make every effort to arrive on time. If you have a concern please call 617-989-2076.
What if I make a reservation and I'm unable to attend at the date/time I selected?
In order for a timed reservation system to work as best as possible, please make sure you are able to attend your reserved slot at time of purchase.
I bought the wrong tickets/timeslot. Can this be fixed?
All ticket sales are final. Due to capacity limits, we cannot reschedule or refund tickets.
Can I reserve tickets for a group?
At this time, group size is limited to 10 people or less. It is recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health that groups contain members of the same household.
After I purchase my reservation and enter the Zoo, will my time be limited or restricted?
Each timed reservation group should have more than enough time to enjoy ZooLights, however it's important to note that most Zoo pathways will be set in a one-way direction, encouraging guests to move along while adhering to the social distancing recommendations set by the state and CDC.
Is there a fee to park?
No, parking is free in our nearby lots.
Will I have to wait in line to enter the Zoo?
If you arrive early for your designated time slot, please wait in your vehicle until 5 minutes before your time slot.
Can I buy ZooLights tickets before my visit?
Yes. Tickets must be reserved online before your visit. You can reserve your tickets for a specific date and time. To make the check-in process as fast and safe as possible, please print your tickets before arriving at the Zoo.
Can I leave the Zoo and come back in?
In order to safely operate within our capacity restrictions there will be no re-entry.
Are you open if it's raining or snowing?
Yes! All tickets are rain-or-shine, and we don't offer refunds, rainchecks or rescheduling. We encourage you to dress accordingly, or check out our gift shop for rain gear during your visit. In the event of severe weather, updates will be made here on our website and on social media.
Will the animals be on exhibit?
Yes! In Yukon Creek, you can see black bears, a bald eagle, Canada lynx, arctic foxes, and even reindeer!
Please note:
- For the animals' health, safety and well-being, some animals may not be on exhibit due to weather, exhibit work, or veterinary care.
- When spending time at an exhibit, please respect physical distancing guidelines.
Will strollers or wheelchair be available for rental?
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, these these items are not currently available for rental.
Will the bathrooms be open?
Yes, some bathrooms will be available and also set with limited capacities and increased cleaning schedule.
Will food be available for purchase?
Yes, snacks and drinks are always available in the gift shop, and there will also be a variety of festive food and drink items available at the Yukon Café, including mini donuts, hot chocolate, fried dough and apple cider.
Can I fly a drone in the Zoo?
For the safety of our animals, drones are not allowed on Zoo grounds.
Will the rides be open?
Due to COVID-19 restrictions and the safety of our guests, our train ride and other amusement rides will not be open this year.
