Wild Holidays
Select Evenings November 28, 2026–January 3, 2027
Exclusive Member Preview: November 27
Celebrate the holidays and see the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in a whole new light! Go on an expedition of light and travel through places that glow, shine, and twinkle with holiday cheer. Musical entertainment, festive storytelling, and culinary treats create family fun that gets everyone in the spirit of the season.
Planning to visit your favorite wildlife? Come early! While several experiences during Wild Holidays continue into the evening, many habitats, trails, and attractions—including Africa Tram—close before dark. To enjoy everything the Safari Park has to offer during these extended hours, we recommend arriving earlier in the day for wildlife viewing and staying for the holiday magic after dark!
Wild Holidays is scheduled on the following dates: November 28–29; December 18–23; and December 26–January 3, 2027. On Wild Holidays dates, the Safari Park is open until 8 p.m.
Wild Holidays Map
View the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Wild Holidays map online and plan your visit.
DOWNLOAD THE PDF HERE ▸
Members, join us for your exclusive member preview on November 27.
Wild Holidays activities and entertainment are included with admission tickets or membership.
Safari Base Camp
Safari Park Radio 197.2
The Safari Park’s very own radio station returns with a jolly mix of contemporary and traditional sounds of the season.
Wild Holidays Celebration Tree
Experience the fun of a giant Safari Park-themed tree sprinkled with unique wildlife decorations and beautiful holiday lighting.
Light Up the Holidays
The area comes to life as it lights up in a choreographed display with a merry holiday soundtrack.
- Carol of the Bells Medley: 5, 6, 7, and 8 p.m.
- Jingle Bells and More Medley: 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m.
Bridge of Lights
Let your holiday expedition take you through this musical and magical tunnel of light.
Santa
Have your photo taken and visit with the jolly ol’ elf himself before he travels back to the North Pole.
On November 27–29 and December 18–23, Santa will be away at the following times:
- 2–2:15 p.m.: Zoom call with elves.
- 4:15–4:45 p.m.: Toy inventory.
- 6:30–6:45 p.m.: Making a list and checking it twice.
On December 5–6 and 12–13, Santa will be away at the following times:
- 11:45 a.m.–Noon: Zoom call with elves.
- 2–2:30 p.m.: Toy inventory.
- 3:45–4 p.m.: Making a list and checking it twice.
On December 24, Santa will be away at the following times:
- 11:45 a.m.–Noon: Zoom call with elves.
- 1:30–2 p.m.: Preparing to return to the North Pole.
Nairobi Village / Lagoon Loop
'Twas the Night before Wild Holidays
Join adventurer extraordinaire Safari Parker for interactive fun and surprises as they read the original holiday story, ‘Twas the Night before Wild Holidays, ending in a cheerful, wintery finale.
Holiday Troubadour
Interact and sing along with our talented acoustic holiday musician that spreads cheer for all to hear.
Turtle Doves
This violin duo performs all your holiday favorites in a classical, symphonic style.
Nairobi Lantern Walk
Journey down the illuminated path and experience the lanterns as their lights dance to a musical soundtrack.
Enchanted Lagoon
Mombasa Lagoon becomes even more enchanting when it comes to life with sparkling, flickering, and floating holiday lights, adding seasonal ambience to the beauty of the lighted waterfall.
Tiger Trail and Beyond
The Spirit of the Season
Experience the magic of the season. These locations are decked out with holiday décor and specially designed lighted trees that make for the perfect family photo opportunity.
Forest of Color
See the forest illuminated in beautiful holiday lights as Condor Valley glistens with seasonal magic.
Lights of Baja
Stroll through these incredible Southwest gardens aglow with holiday cheer.
Sweater Weather
Enjoy an acoustic performance by this traveling guitar duo as they put their own spin on holiday classics.
Wild Holidays Culinary Offerings
Tis the season for comfy treats. Holiday merrymaking is thirsty—and hungry—work. There are plenty of scrumptious goodies to enjoy around the Safari Park during this wonderful time of year. Follow your tastebuds and discover all the flavors of the season.
Menu subject to change. Guests must be 21 years of age or older with a valid ID to consume alcoholic beverages.