Riverbanks Zoo Wild Lights: A Dazzling Holiday Spectacle in Columbia, SC

I visited Riverbanks Zoo Wild Lights on December 18, 2023 with my family, and it instantly became one of my favorite holiday outings. Although I’ve been to Riverbanks Zoo many times, I had never experienced it illuminated for Christmas. This turned out to be the perfect year to go—Riverbanks Zoo Wild Lights added stunning lanterns to its traditional displays, creating a magical blend of color, creativity, and holiday cheer.

Wild Lights is a special seasonal event held on select evenings during the Christmas season. On these nights, the zoo closes at 4 p.m. to prepare for the festivities. Even though we visited on a weeknight, the zoo was bustling with visitors bundled up against the December chill, all eager to wander through the glowing pathways.

The atmosphere was absolutely enchanting. If you’re not feeling the Christmas spirit yet, Riverbanks Zoo Wild Lights will change that the moment you step inside. Lanterns shaped like animals, flowers, and whimsical scenes lined the walkways, each one glowing brilliantly against the night sky. We enjoyed munching on popcorn as we explored, stopping often to admire the artistry of the more than 60 lanterns scattered throughout the zoo. Some displays towered above us, casting soft, colorful light across the pathways, while others were tucked into quiet corners, creating intimate moments of wonder.

My mother took a break at the fire pit tables near the carousel to warm up. There’s something timeless about carousels—the music, the lights, the excited children rushing to choose their favorite animal. Watching them brought back memories of my own children at that age, their faces glowing with wonder and anticipation. It reminded me how holiday traditions connect generations, offering small moments of joy that linger long after the season ends. The combination of lanterns, laughter, and crisp winter air made the entire evening feel like stepping into a living Christmas card.

If you’re planning a visit—and I highly recommend it—Riverbanks Zoo Wild Lights runs on select nights until January 14th, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets for nonmembers range from $19.99 to $24.99, depending on the night, and must be purchased online before arrival.

If You Go

Location — Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Columbia, South Carolina
Event Dates — Select nights through January 14th check the Zoo’s Web Site
Hours — Event runs 5 p.m.–9 p.m.; zoo closes at 4 p.m. on Wild Lights evenings. Confirm on the Zoo’s web site
Tickets — $19.99–$24.99 for nonmembers; online purchase required
Highlights — Over 60 lanterns, festive lights, fire pits, carousel area, holiday music
Crowds — Expect busy pathways even on weeknights
Food — Popcorn, drinks, and seasonal treats available
Bathrooms — Restrooms open near entrances and throughout the event areas
Parking — Free parking at the main zoo lot
Best Time — Arrive at opening for easier parking and less crowding