WildLights at The Living Desert

WildLights at The Living Desert turns the zoo and gardens into an after-dark walk through illuminated animal forms, a model train, carousel rides and s’mores fires. It is a winter evening built around strolling rather than rushing, with the desert cooling around you as the displays begin to glow. Select adults-only nights in mid-December offer a different tone, while the main experience welcomes families looking for an easy seasonal outing.

Why go

• Walk-through lights: Animal-shaped installations transform the zoo pathways into an evening route of glowing scenes.
• Classic extras: A model train, carousel rides and s’mores fires extend the visit beyond the light displays.
• Different nights: Select adults-only dates in mid-December create an option for a grown-up evening out.
• Desert setting: The cool night air and garden paths make the zoo’s winter atmosphere part of the appeal.

What to expect

Expect a self-guided nighttime walk where the lights, landscaping and animal-shaped installations lead the way. Families tend to pause at the train, carousel and fires, while adults can take the route more slowly and enjoy the visual details across the gardens. The mood is gentle and bright rather than high-energy, with enough activities to make an evening of it. You will be outdoors after sunset, surrounded by a zoo setting that feels especially different once its paths are lit.

Know before you go

• Last admission is typically 8:30 p.m., so allow enough time to experience the route.
• Dress warmly; desert temperatures can fall quickly after dark.
• Check the current calendar for dates and any adults-only evenings.