Guide to LA ZOO Lights
(credit: Jack Burke/DiversionsLA)
Holiday light seekers should look no further than visiting the LA Zoo for its LA Zoo Lights extravaganza, where it's not just about seeing lions and tigers and bears. In fact, it's about that and much more! Added to the wonder and excitement of seeing live and beautiful species, the LA Zoo has added glittery, vibrant lights to the mix for holiday excitement. Running through January 3rd, the Los Angeles Zoo's sparkly event has replaced - and surpassed - the iconic DWP Holiday Light Festival, a drive-through light show that closed in 2009.
Consisting of brilliantly colored LED lights, laser light shows, 3D projections, and even a few zoo residents, this self-guided holiday walk takes visitors on an animal-centric, light adventure. The technology behind this fabulous light show was created by art director Gregg Lacy and Bionic League, known for creating light shows for performing artists including Kanye West and Daft Punk.The following are the top five attractions at this seasonal event you won't want to miss.
Los Angeles Zoo
5333 Zoo Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 644-4200
www.lazoolights.org
Dates: November 18, 2016 - January 8, 2017 from 6pm to 10pm
Rain Forest Canopy
Literally a canopy with green and gold birds, shimmery blue fish, and other Amazonian images, this laser light show is projected above zoo-goers heads, so look up and listen to the accompanying, mood-enhancing musical score.
LAIR and the Water and Light Show
New this year is a night walk through the Zoo's reptile house. A giant illuminated snake is perched along the roof of this exhibit, while inside nocturnal lizards and snakes and turtles bask under heated lights. It's a great place to warm up on a chilly night while checking out cold blooded creatures who thrive in the heat. Right outside LAIR is the location of the water and light show, where you'll find spectacular dancing fountains, undulating lights, and projected animal images.
Santa Claus And His Reindeer
Naturally, no holiday visit would be complete without a stop to see Santa. Seated on a golden throne, Santa is located near the Zoo's classic carousel and the grand glow of illuminated holiday ornaments. In another exhibit space a short distance away, reindeer relax in an open display. No other spot in Los Angeles has live reindeer.
Disco Birds
In this stunning exhibit, watch silver birds fly over purple lights and mirrored disco balls while kids and adults rock out to a fun disco soundtrack.
Elephant Parade
Who doesn't love elephants? In this exhilarating 3D light show, lights are projected on a group of life-like elephant statues, which allows viewers to watch these magnificent creatures appear to become covered with holiday lights, ornaments, or holiday wrapping paper.
Tunnel Of Lights And The Red Carpet Experience
At LA Zoo Lights, stroll beneath an enchanting tunnel of lights and watch an animal-centric light display of critters walking the red carpet in Hollywood. You'll also get a glimpse of glowing images of the Hollywood Bowl, the LA freeway system, and the LA skyline.