PNC Festival of Lights 

Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the holiday season in Cincy  

Experience the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden like you’ve never seen it before. This holiday festival is one of Cincinnati’s favorite Christmas light shows. With millions of lights shining bright, animal lanterns, Santa, s’mores, and more–there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than a visit to the PNC Festival of Lights.  

PNC Festival of Lights (Photo: @anadventureshared)

Plan your PNC Festival of Lights visit

PNC Festival of Lights is included in Zoo admission so we recommend visiting the zoo early (especially if you want to meet zoo creatures) and staying for the light show. 

This is primarily a pedestrian event where you can walk as much, or as little as you’d like. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is stroller and wagon-friendly to make the event easier for little ones. Don’t forget to dress warmly and bring a blanket. 

For the ultimate holiday adventure, check out the North Polar Express Train or go for a spin on the Conservation Carousel. 

If meeting the animals is high on your must-do list, make a plan to visit the zoo early. Buildings that will be open during the PNC Festival of Lights: Reptile House, Gorilla World, Night Hunters, Dragons, World of the Insect, Manatee Springs, Jungle Trails West, and Discovery Forest.

Enjoy holiday treats like gourmet hot chocolate, glowing cotton candy, craft beer for the grownups, and more. Check out the full list of food vendors during the festival.

When you visit the PNC Festival of Lights, check out the zoo’s helpful app for announcements and a handy map.  

PNC Festival of Lights parking

Festival goers may park in the main Zoo lot at 3427 Vine Street. 

You can enter the zoo at the Pavilion Entry Building from the Main Parking Lot, equipped with stairs & elevators to get to bridge level, or park in the lot on Erkenbrecher Ave and walk across the new bridge to arrive at the entrance. 

Additional parking lots are opened as needed, so please follow signs and staff directions to one of our overflow options.

The PNC Festival of Lights has filled Cincy with wonder and holiday joy for over 40 years. Don’t miss the magic of this annual Cincy holiday tradition.