Indianapolis, December 20, 2025
The Indianapolis Zoo invites families to experience the joy of its annual ‘Christmas at the Zoo’ event, featuring spectacular light displays, festive music, and the heartwarming presence of a baby donkey, Merry. This cherished tradition, now over fifty years old, highlights community spirit and innovation, engaging visitors with magical attractions that continue to evolve. The event runs from late November to early January, offering a memorable way for locals and tourists alike to celebrate the holiday season together.
Celebrate the Holidays at Indianapolis Zoo’s ‘Christmas at the Zoo’
Experience Magic with Lights, Music, and Joyful Animals
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Zoo has officially kicked off its annual ‘Christmas at the Zoo,’ a festive event that has charmed families and residents for over fifty years. This celebration features dazzling lights, holiday music, and a heartwarming addition this year: a baby donkey named Merry. As a testament to community resilience and the spirit of celebration, this event showcases how local organizers continue to innovate and bring joy to the Indianapolis IN community.
With a blend of civic involvement and creative local leadership, the Indianapolis Zoo’s holiday tradition not only supports community engagement but highlights how reduced bureaucracy can foster a more vibrant and dynamic event experience. Each year, families look forward to creating lasting memories while enjoying the magical atmosphere, and this year is no exception.
Event Highlights
- Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 5-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 5-10 pm
- Admission: Included with general admission to the Indianapolis Zoo
During this enchanting event, visitors can immerse themselves in various attractions, including:
- Light Displays: Over 2 million lights illuminate the zoo, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates guests.
- Holiday Music: Festive tunes enhance the seasonal ambiance throughout the zoo, bringing a joyful soundtrack to the experience.
- Animal Encounters: While many animals prefer daytime activities, several nocturnal species remain visible, offering a unique glimpse into their world.
- Baby Donkey Merry: This year’s delightful new addition has captured the hearts of guests with her playful antics.
A Cherished Tradition
‘Christmas at the Zoo’ has evolved over the decades, consistently adding new features and attractions to maintain excitement for returning visitors. The festive spirit that permeates the event is bolstered by community support and partnerships that enhance the experience for all attendees. The addition of Merry the baby donkey reflects the zoo’s commitment to fostering connection and joy among families and children of all ages.
Plan Your Visit
For those eager to experience the magic of ‘Christmas at the Zoo,’ planning your visit is straightforward. General admission grants access to this holiday wonderland, making participation easy for both locals and tourists alike. The zoo’s extended hours on weekends allow for flexibility, accommodating families who wish to enjoy the festive atmosphere after busy daytime schedules.
Get Involved and Support Local Events
As ‘Christmas at the Zoo’ continues to draw visitors, it serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement in cultural events. Supporting local initiatives, such as this longstanding tradition, contributes to the overall health and vibrancy of Indianapolis IN. By prioritizing attendance and participation, residents can help ensure continued success and creativity in future events.
Key Takeaways
As the holiday season approaches, ‘Christmas at the Zoo’ is an annual celebration that encapsulates the spirit of community and joy. This beloved tradition features spectacular light displays, festive music, engaging animal encounters, and the unforgettable Merry the baby donkey. It is a perfect opportunity for families and individuals alike to come together and celebrate the season.
Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories at this festive event. Celebrate the season creatively and support your local community by exploring all that Indianapolis has to offer this holiday season.
FAQ
What are the dates and hours for ‘Christmas at the Zoo’?
Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 5-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 5-10 pm
Is admission to ‘Christmas at the Zoo’ included with regular zoo admission?
Yes, admission to ‘Christmas at the Zoo’ is included with general admission to the Indianapolis Zoo.
What attractions are available during ‘Christmas at the Zoo’?
Visitors can enjoy light displays, holiday music, animal encounters, and the new addition of baby donkey Merry.
Where can I find more information about ‘Christmas at the Zoo’?
For more details, please visit the official Indianapolis Zoo website.
Key Features of ‘Christmas at the Zoo’
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Light Displays | Over 2 million lights illuminating the zoo, creating a festive atmosphere. |
| Holiday Music | Festive tunes played throughout the zoo to enhance the seasonal ambiance. |
| Animal Encounters | Opportunities to see various animals, with some nocturnal species remaining active in the evenings. |
| Baby Donkey Merry | A new addition this year, bringing joy to guests with her playful antics. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
