Music-synced light extravaganza Zoolight Safari kicks off Dec. 9

The Birmingham Zoo will be transformed into a winter wonderland again this December for its annual Zoolight Safari. 

With the sponsorship of Wells Fargo, the zoo will be open on weekend nights through the month starting Dec. 9, so guests can enjoy a few extra hours in the holiday-themed park. 

“There [will be] over one million lights throughout the zoo that are synchronized to holiday music,” said Kiki Nolen-Schmidt, marketing coordinator for the zoo. Families also can ride the train and the carousel or slip down the slide. All will be decorated for the holidays.

Although the ice rink will not be returning, the event will feature a decorated 30-foot tree.

Families also will be able start their day with good food and a visit from Santa during the zoo’s annual Breakfast with Santa on the morning of Dec. 17. They can meet him for photos every night until Dec. 23.

“[Visitors] can expect a family-friendly event that is fun for guests of all ages,” Nolen-Schmidt said. 

Zoolight Safari will be open Dec. 9-11, Dec. 16-23 and Dec. 26-31. For more details, check for updates at birminghamzoo.com.