Friday Night Lights at the Zoo | July 31, 2026

Be among the first to experience Friday Night Lights at the Zoo, a brand-new 21+ after-hours event series at Wilderness Trails Zoo! Whether you're planning a unique date night, celebrating with friends, or simply looking for something different to do, this is an unforgettable opportunity to experience the zoo after dark while supporting future improvements for our animals and guests.

As the sun sets, the zoo comes alive with illuminated pathways and glowing animal habitats, creating an atmosphere unlike any daytime visit. Your ticket includes a deluxe open bar, delicious catered food, live music throughout the evening, and access to exclusive animal experiences you won't find during regular zoo hours.

One of the highlights of the evening is the opportunity to explore our immersive rainforest exhibit, home to our beloved two-toed sloths and many other fascinating rainforest animals. The exhibit will remain open throughout the event, and a keeper will be available inside throughout the evening to answer questions and share more about the animals in their care. Guests will also enjoy a special zoo baby photo opportunity, offering the chance to meet one of our newest animal ambassadors and capture unforgettable memories.

As the kickoff event of the series, the evening will also feature our Community Cupboard Donation Drive raffle drawing. Guests who participated in the donation drive by donating three approved pantry items will be entered for a chance to win an unforgettable animal encounter for two.

This event's featured fundraising activity will help support future improvement projects at Wilderness Trails Zoo, allowing guests to enjoy an incredible evening of animals, food, drinks, music, and entertainment while giving back to the zoo.

Event Schedule

• Doors open at 7:00 PM
• Enjoy food, drinks, live music, animal experiences, and explore the zoo at your own pace throughout the evening.
• Event concludes at 11:00 PM
  

Buy 5, Get the 6th Free
Attend the first five Friday Night Lights events and receive complimentary admission to the sixth and final event of the season on October 9, 2026.

Good to Know

• Free parking is available on-site.
• The zoo offers accessible pathways throughout much of the event area.
• Guests must be 21 years of age or older with a valid photo ID.
• Advance ticket purchase is required. Tickets will not be available at the gate.
• In the event of severe weather, the event will be postponed to the designated rain date (the following Friday), and all purchased tickets will automatically transfer to that date.
• Tickets are non-refundable and are valid only for the date purchased or its designated rain date. Tickets may not be transferred to another guest or another event date.