Take a winter stroll through the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo this holiday season under the sparkling lights of over 50 winter and animal characters.
Celebrate the season of giving by bringing donations of non-perishable food items, new toys, and gently used coats.
2024 HOLIDAY LIGHTS
5pm to 9pm
Friday to Sunday, November 22 – 24
Friday, November 29 – Wednesday, December 4
Friday, December 6 – Tuesday, December 31
Closed December 24 & 25
5pm – 9pm
Carousel ($) – Touch Tank – Face Painting ($) – Reptile House – Farm – Train – Gift Shop ($) – Pony Rides ($)
Admission is FREE. Please consider a donation of:
non-perishable food items
new (unwrapped) toys
gently used coats
Tickets/ Reservations are not required.
This special event is set to the backdrop of some animals. The focus is on an evening stroll outdoors through light displays and photo ops with friends and family, featuring some fun seasonal activities such as a s’mores station, Grinch weekend and photos with Santa! Not all of the Zoo is open and accessible. Areas to check out to see an animal or two that are open are the Touch Tank, Reptile House and Farm.
Scroll Down for Specific Dates & Times for:
- Santa
Food Options
- Café open
- S’mores – outside café
- Kettle Corn & Hot Cocoa – by Train
- Zeppole – by Flamingo
- Wetzel Pretzel – TBD
- Enchanted Igloo Rentals – picnic area
All Zoo Rules apply during this special event which includes, but is not limited to: no pets, no smoking, visitors age 17 & under must be accompanied by a chaperone, power wheel & remote controlled devices are not permitted on grounds. For a complete list of FAQs, visit turtlebackzoo.com/zoo-rules/
updated as of 11/12/24
