What dates and times is WildLights & Animal Sights open?

The event runs every Friday and Saturday evening from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, starting November 28th through January 3rd.

Are tickets required for entry?

Yes, tickets must be booked in advance to guarantee entry during this popular seasonal event.

Is the event suitable for children?

Absolutely—WildLights & Animal Sights is designed for family audiences, with engaging and safe paths for all ages.

Are pets allowed during the event?

No, pets are not permitted to protect the welfare of the sanctuary’s animals and visitors.

Is food available on site?

Yes, seasonal concessions like hot cocoa, cider, and snacks are available to keep you warm and satisfied.

Can I purchase gifts at the event?

The Heritage Park Gift Shop remains open during WildLights with unique holiday items and handcrafted souvenirs.

Holiday Wildlights at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, Arizona invites visitors to step into a festive winter experience with its annual WildLights & Animal Sights event. Running every Friday and Saturday evening from late November through early January, this seasonal celebration turns the sanctuary into a glowing holiday playground. The park’s walkways come alive with thousands of colorful LED lights, illuminating animal habitats and pathways, creating an immersive atmosphere that’s both family-friendly and distinctly Arizona.

As twilight falls over Prescott's cool desert air, guests wander among vibrant light displays that complement the sanctuary’s natural setting. Expect to encounter visually stunning installations accentuating the sanctuary’s wide-ranging native and exotic animals—elk, bobcats, and bison—all residing in thoughtfully maintained habitats blending natural flora with desert-adapted plants. This creative lighting amplifies the connection to the local environment while spotlighting the wildlife’s silhouettes in the dusk.

Beyond the lights, the event features live music that echoes softly through the trees, creating a festive soundtrack to your stroll. Warm up with seasonal refreshments like hot cocoa and cider available at concessions stands strategically placed along the route. The Heritage Park Gift Shop offers unique handcrafted gifts, ideal for holiday shopping with a local touch.

This event uniquely blends outdoor wildlife appreciation with holiday festivity, providing a refreshing alternative to conventional indoor celebrations. It celebrates Prescott’s winter charm, the region’s ecological storytelling, and community spirit. Whether you’re a family eager for an engaging evening out or a nature enthusiast seeking a seasonal twist on wildlife viewing, WildLights & Animal Sights delivers an accessible, joyful winter outing. Its combination of festive cheer, educational opportunities, and outdoor ambiance marks it as a standout destination in Northern Arizona’s winter calendar.

About Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, Arizona is a community-focused zoological park dedicated to animal care, education, and conservation. The Sanctuary operates year-round and offers a wide range of experiences for families, students, photographers, and event planners. Visitors can attend seasonal events such as WildLights and Holiday Cheers, themed celebrations like Thanksgiving with the Lemurs and Santa with the Animals, and special admission days including Veterans Day and Dollar Day.

Educational programs include ZooLittles preschool sessions, School Guided Tours, School Self-Tours for groups of 10 or more, animal presentations tailored to classroom topics, and outreach visits to schools and senior centers. Hands-on experiences range from Behind the Scenes Photo Tours and Private Behind the Scenes Tours to immersive Keeper for a Day and Junior Keeper for a Day opportunities; several programs require pre-registration to ensure animal welfare and safety.

Venue rentals such as the Pronghorn Deck and Half Pence Pavilion provide outdoor event space with views of Willow Lake, zoo admission options, and support for catering or food trucks. The Sanctuary also offers private guided tours, private animal presentations, and community specials like Free Kids Week and Dollar Day.

All programming emphasizes animal health, safety, and education, and staff-led activities are guided by experienced keepers. The Sanctuary’s calendar blends seasonal festivals, conservation-focused education, and community outreach to create accessible wildlife experiences for Prescott residents and visiting families. Some events, venue rentals, and program fees help support wildlife conservation efforts at the Sanctuary and fund animal care, enrichment, and educational resources.