NOW THROUGH JANUARY 18, 2026

THURSDAYS TO SUNDAYS AND SOME SELECT NIGHTS

6 to 9 PM

Step into the first-of-its-kind nighttime art experience where endangered wildlife takes center stage. Lights On will transform Brevard Zoo after dark with over 25 captivating artworks—featuring near life-size illuminated paintings, virtual reality stations, glow-in-the-dark murals, a flashlight safari and more. This immersive event goes far beyond a traditional art exhibit, inviting visitors to explore the powerful stories of vulnerable species in an inventive celebration of visual art that’s never been done before.

Your Lights On ticket purchase directly supports global conservation and wildlife protection efforts. Thank you!

LIMITED TIME ONLY! Save up to 30% when you buy two tickets to Lights On for just $70! Tickets valid for any Lights On night now through January 18, 2026. Your entire party must be present at the same time and enter together. This discount cannot be combined with any other discount.

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Thursday and Sunday – $45 per person
Friday and Saturday – $55 per person
Members receive $5 off. Upgrade your general admission ticket to VIP and receive a souvenir glow-in-the-dark necklace and drink and snack tickets. 

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Save 25% when you combine daytime Zoo admission with your Lights On ticket!

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Illuminated Animal Conservation Artwork -- Project Holocene

Backlit artwork of green sea turtle by Russ Ronat

When we shine a light on species on the brink, we give them a chance to be seen and saved. This international art exhibition aims to share a conservation message about endangered animals through incredible paintings, helping build awareness around the importance of protecting biodiversity.

Project creator and artist Russell Ronat is originally from South Africa. “I am passionate about using art to show the beauty and fragility of species. I think art can play an important part in conversation and build empathy for conservation. I hope that my art creates more attention, awareness in the viewer and that leads to greater conservation success.”

Wildlife Virtual Reality — Immerse Yourself

woman outdoors in a vibrant setting wearing a virtual reality headset

Through virtual reality experiences, you can interact with 10 different endangered species, from “swimming” with manatees to “meeting” elephants, thanks to Wildlife Protection Solutions (WPS). Through shows like this one, this incredible nonprofit generates revenue to provide video and tracking data to field biologists at little to no cost. 

German Lemus — Painting with a Twist

Get up close with 12+ dynamic glow-in-the-dark animal paintings located in our Expedition Africa loop! These gorgeous, intricate neon murals will simply amaze you!

Immersive Experiences — Lighting Effects and More!

young adults with flashlights exploring the walkway at the zoo at night

Delight in the art experience as you walk parts of the Zoo with a flashlight, exploring the loops in the dark. Even your food and drink options involve glow surprises, and don’t forget to check out the glow merchandise before you leave. View our special menu of tasty bites!

Food, drink and merchandise are an additional cost. A special VIP ticket is available that includes a souvenir glow-in-the-dark necklace and drink and snack tickets. 

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Tickets must be purchased online in advance to ensure entry into Lights On. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the Zoo. Limited tickets are available per night. Tickets must be purchased for the specific date you want to attend and for the specific entry time. The exhibition is not open on 12/5, 12/6, 12/14, 12/20 and 12/25.

Lights On: A Nighttime Art Experience is a separately ticketed event and is not included with regular Zoo admission. Tickets are non-refundable and additional fees may apply for certain activities.

Pick your day and time. Discounted tickets are available on Thursdays and Sundays of the event except for Thanksgiving Day which falls on a Thursday.

This event may contain strobe, flashing, or rapidly changing lights. These effects can trigger discomfort or adverse reactions in individuals who are sensitive to light, including those with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lights On: A Nighttime Art Experience?

Lights On is not a holiday-related event featuring animals lit up. Instead, Lights On is art exhibition with more than 25 works of art located throughout parts of the Zoo. This immersive experience highlights the stories of endangered animals through illuminated art pieces, virtual reality experiences, glow-in-the-dark painting and more. Guests can explore parts of the Zoo at night as the learn more about animal conservation. This event is unlike any art experience you have ever experienced The event is recommended for those 10 and older and any person under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to buy a Zoo admission ticket?

No, Lights On: A Nighttime Art Experience is a separate event from the Zoo and occurs at night outside of normal Zoo operating hours. Only a ticket to Lights On is required.

Are group tickets available?

Yes, Groups of 15 or more may receive a discount. We also have a limited number of nights available for private events and buyouts. For group tickets or company parties, please contact egracie@brevardzoo.org.

What if it rains?

This event is held rain or shine. No refunds or date exchanges are allowed.

Will I see animals?

This evening event is not focused on seeing our animals, though you may be able to spot some of them as you make your way through the Zoo. We recommend visiting during the day to have the best opportunity to view our animals.

When is the last time I can enter the event?

The last admission, which is timed entry, is at 8 PM. No exceptions.

Will there be food?

Food and beverages will be available for purchase. You can upgrade your general admission ticket to a VIP ticket and receive a glow-in-the-dark souvenir necklace and food and drink tickets.

Can I purchase tickets at the ticket window or over the phone?

Tickets can be purchased online and at the ticket window, or by speaking to a staff member over the phone.

If I am a Zoo member, can I come in for free?

No. Lights On: A Nighttime Art Experience is an event that takes place outside of normal Zoo operating hours, and therefore, not included in your member benefits. However, we do offer members a discounted rate. Just enter your membership ID number when purchasing tickets to receive your discount.

Do I need to show up on my selected day and time?

Yes. We set capacities on all dates and times so that guests enjoy an incredible experience and park on-site. If you choose to show up on a different day or time than you purchased, please be advised you may not receive entry. In the event you purchase a lower priced ticket and try to come on a more expensive day, you may incur increased fees and may be denied entry. All purchases are non-refundable.

How long does the art experience take?

This experience should take you about 60-90 minutes, but do not feel rushed if you take longer. Last entry is 8 PM and the event ends sharply at 9 PM.

Can I leave and re-enter?

No re-entry is allowed.


REFUND POLICY