ROYAL OAK (WWJ) - The Detroit Zoo's one-of-a-kind holiday experience officially kicks of Saturday as Wild Lights opens to the public for the tenth year in a row.
The zoo's annual holiday lights display will welcome guests beginning Nov. 19 through Jan. 8, 2023. The event will run most Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 10:30 p.m. and select weeknights and most Sundays from 5 to 9 p.m.
Organizers said the display will span the front half of the property and feature vignettes with millions of twinkling LED lights illuminating buildings, trees, sculptures and a walk-through tunnel.
New to 2023, guests an stroll through an immersive forest of lights while listening to holiday tunes and can stop at the Wild Lights Lodge, an inside experience with bar service, live entertainment and more.
"This trail experience is filled with holiday magic celebrating the beauty of nature," organizers said. "It is sure to put you in the festive spirit!"
Other displays include a Toyland with life-size toy sculptures of lights with a 40 ft. long train, a wishing tree, Wildlife Photographer of the Year art exhibition, and a Polar Express 4D theater experience.
The zoo will have seasonal treats and eats from hot cocoa, pretzels, kettle corn and other food available for purchase throughout the event.
General admission tickets for Wild Lights range from $17 to $24, based on the time and day, and can be purchased in advance by visiting wildlights.detroitzoo.org.
Other ticket packages are available for a range of prices, including the Polar Bear Patio package which is back by popular demand, organizers said.
The special admission offers a private, all-you-can food and dessert dining experience inside Table 28, a cash bar and hot cocoa offered in a souvenir cup.
Guests are encouraged to check out wildlights.detroitzoo.org for more information.