The festive season is beginning to pick up steam. To celebrate, the Johannesburg Zoo will be transformed into a wonderland of lights.
After ghouling up for Halloween, the zoo – in association with the City of Johannesburg, Joburg Theatre, Joburg City Parks and Zoo and City Power – is ringing in the Christmas holidays with the annual Festival of Lights.
Let’s shed some light on this enchanting event:
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: A DAZZLING DISPLAY
Numerous installations will light up the pathways of the zoo to both mark the festive season and celebrate our diverse wildlife.
Indeed, many of the life-sized sculptures evoke a Christmas atmosphere, like the lone reindeer grazing to its heart’s content; others depict iconic animals like lions, rhinos and giraffes. These are undoubtedly the festival’s highlights (pun totally intended).
There will also be a food and craft night market, as well as live entertainment for you and the kiddies to enjoy.
ILLUMINATING EVENT DETAILS
The Festival of Lights will take place at the zoo’s premises in Parkview, Johannesburg.
It will run between 27 November 2025 and 4 January 2026. It starts at 19:00 and ends at 22:00 from Thursdays to Sundays.
Tickets cost R175 for adults and R100 for pensioners. For children aged three to 12, it will cost R75, while those aged three and under can enter for free. Tickets are available to purchase from www.webtickets.co.za.
The zoo offers wheelchair accessibility, thus ensuring an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS TIDBITS
The Festival of Lights is meant to be a family-friendly event. As such, there are some rules you need to follow.
You’re welcome to bring your own camping chairs. That way, you can take a break or simply bask in the glittery splendour of the sculptures.
However, the following is prohibited:
- Alcohol.
- Balloons or balls.
- Cooler boxes.
- Pets.
- Your own food.
All in all, this event promises to be a stunning good time and a great way to spend the festive season!
