Zoo Lights & Christmas Nights
A Magical Winter Wonderland
When?
Fridays & Saturdays
Nov 27 - Dec 26
Nov 27 - Dec 26
Time?
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
(Last Entry 7:30)
(Last Entry 7:30)
Where?
3 Palms Zoo
Townsend, DE
Townsend, DE
Unwrap the Magic
Step into a world of enchantment! Stroll illuminated pathways surrounded by thousands of lights, festive blow molds, and our resident nocturnal rescues.
Santa Photos
Visit Santa inside his cozy living room in the life-sized Gingerbread House! Bring your camera—photos are free.
Hear Santa's Greeting:
Cozy Bonfire & Treats
Complimentary hot chocolate and marshmallows for roasting over our outdoor fire pits are included with admission!
Nocturnal Animals
See our eastern screech owls, foxes, waterfowl, and other sanctuary residents awake and active under the night sky!
Light Displays & Blow Molds
Stroll through vintage glowing blow molds and thousands of twinkling holiday lights set to festive tunes!
Admission & Tickets
Pay Cash (At Gate)
$6.00
Pay flat cash upon arrival with zero extra fees! No reservations needed.
Pay Cash at Gate
Online Tickets / Card
$7.00
Skip the ticket booth with fast mobile check-in, or pay with Card / Apple Pay at the gate.
Buy Online
Get Your Zoo Lights & Christmas Nights Tickets
Select your date and arrival time below for fast mobile check-in at the gate!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santa there every night?
Yes! Santa will be in his cozy living room inside the Gingerbread House every night of the event. Note: During peak evening times there may be a short wait inside to visit him.
Do I need to print my tickets?
Nope! If you buy your tickets online, just show the barcode on your phone at the gate. We scan it right off your screen and you're in!
Can we feed the animals?
No evening feeding. For the safety and nighttime comfort of our resident rescues and visitors, we do not sell feed bags during special evening events.
What happens if it rains or snows?
We are a weather-permitting outdoor event. If bad weather forces a closure, updates will be posted to our Facebook Page an hour before opening. Tickets are non-refundable but are valid for any other night of the event!
What should we wear?
Dress warmly in layers! Winter coats, hats, gloves, and sturdy closed-toe walking shoes are strongly recommended for navigating our natural outdoor pathways.
Can I bring my dog or family pet?
No outside pets permitted. Because our waterfowl, ducks, geese, and chickens roam freely across the zoo grounds, outside animals present a direct safety risk. Only ADA certified service animals are permitted.
Is parking free?
Yes! Free on-site parking is available. Attendants will direct you into a space when you pull in.
Holiday Highlights
Click any photo to explore our displays, fireside treats, and holiday rescues!
Meet Santa Claus at 3 Palms Zoo
Holiday Gazebo & Fire Table
Gingerbread Lane Display
Patriotic Christmas Americana
Holiday Character Photo Bench
Playful Holiday Penguins
Glowing Heart Grinch Gate
Spread the Holiday Cheer!
📅 RSVP on FacebookDownload our official event flyer to print, or share it with your friends and family on social media. Admission proceeds support our rescues! ❤️