3.5 Million Lights to Transform Roger Williams Park Zoo for Annual Holiday Display

The Holiday Lights Spectacular is returning to Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island. This event will take place from Nov. 28 through Jan. 4, 2026, running nightly from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. with brief closures on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Visitors to the zoo will encounter more than 3.5 million lights across 40 acres.

As part of the event, families can enjoy glowing pathways, hot cocoa, s'mores by the fire, and abundant photo opportunities. Visitors are advised to dress warmly and charge their devices to capture plenty of memorable moments.

According to a Patch of Rhode Island report, a new feature this year is Discount Tuesdays, which will feature $5 admission. Meet and greets with Frozen characters will take place on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Santa visits on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and a nightly storytime with Roger the Red Panda at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m.

Visitors must purchase tickets for the Holiday Lights Spectacular on the zoo's website in advance of their planned visit.

Proceeds from the event support the zoo's animal care, education programs, and conservation initiatives, according to the zoo's media release.