The Cincinnati Zoo in November is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the magic of the holiday season. As the PNC Festival of Lights takes center stage, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a dazzling array of attractions and events that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
PNC Festival of Lights: Illuminating the Night
The PNC Festival of Lights is the main attraction at the Cincinnati Zoo in November, running from November 17, 2023, to January 7, 2024. This annual event is a true spectacle, featuring over 4 million LED lights that create a mesmerizing display throughout the zoo.
Dates and Hours
- The festival runs from November 17, 2023, to January 7, 2024.
- Hours of operation:
- Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 9pm
- Friday – Saturday: 10am – 10pm
Main Attractions
- Santa’s Village (open at 4pm daily)
- North Polar Express Train (starts at 2:30pm daily)
- Elfie Selfie Stations
- Sensory-Friendly Santa visits (reservations required)
- Wild Lights show on Swan Lake
- Photo opportunities with holiday backdrops and light tunnels
Zoo Hours and Admission
During the PNC Festival of Lights, the Cincinnati Zoo’s general hours are as follows:
- November 21st-January 5th:
- Sunday-Thursday: 10am-9pm
- Friday & Saturday: 10am-10pm
Admission to the PNC Festival of Lights is included in the regular zoo admission, with prices varying based on demand, typically lower on weekdays.
Other Events and Activities
In addition to the PNC Festival of Lights, the Cincinnati Zoo in November offers several other exciting events and activities:
Sensory Santa
- Dates: November 29 – December 1, 3, 7-10, 14-17, and 21-23
- Sensory-friendly Santa visits for guests with sensory sensitivities
Happy ZOO Year
- Date: December 31, 2023
- Celebrate the new year at the zoo with special activities and events
Tips and Essentials
To make the most of your visit to the Cincinnati Zoo in November, here are some tips and essentials to keep in mind:
Parking
- Additional parking spots and a new bridge across Erkenbrecher Ave for easier entry and exit
Food and Shopping
- Various dining options and gift shops throughout the zoo
Interactive Map
- Use the zoo’s interactive map app to navigate and find attractions
Special Events
The Cincinnati Zoo in November also offers special events and accommodations for guests with sensory sensitivities:
PNC Festival of Lights Social Narrative
- Available for guests with sensory sensitivities
Sensory-Friendly Santa Social Narrative
- Available for guests with sensory sensitivities
Membership and Tickets
To make the most of your visit to the Cincinnati Zoo in November, consider the following options:
Membership
- Purchase or renew memberships for year-round access to the zoo and special events
Tickets
- Buy tickets online to save time and money, with prices varying based on demand
Additional Information
Here are a few additional details to keep in mind when planning your visit to the Cincinnati Zoo in November:
Weather
- Zoo hours and activities are weather permitting
Accessibility
- The zoo offers accessibility features such as wheelchair rentals and accessible restrooms
References
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/pnc-festival-of-lights/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/events/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/events/festival-of-lights/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/the-41st-annual-pnc-festival-of-lights-at-the-cincinnati-zoo/
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/plan-your-adventure/