Editor’s note: We are reflecting on our 12 most impactful moments of 2025. Your support made these incredible stories of rescue, recovery and wonder at your Zoo possible. Thank you. We celebrate what your support made possible – and ask you to help create even more magical moments in 2026. Thanks to our generous matching donors, the first $30,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar, making these gifts even more joyous. Learn more here.    

At Brevard Zoo, we’re always looking for ways to spread our mission to share our joy of nature to help wildlife and people thrive. This year, we did so in two unique ways – through special art experiences.  

During Bold Murals, Florida-based artists took their creativity to new heights by designing large, detailed murals centered around two unique themes. The first exhibition, directly centered by our mission, inspired creations featuring beach and ocean scenes, cultural art and more. The second round asked artists to interpret the prompt “They thrive. We thrive.” The resulting art consisted of animal portraits such as a cotton-top tamarin family, exploring sea turtles and more.  

Now, Lights On is transforming the Zoo into a special nighttime art experience. Detailed animal portraits from Denver-based artist Russ Ronat draw attention to the precariousness of these special species, with the timing of the portrait’s illumination depending on their conservation status.  

Orlando-based artist German Lemus is also lighting up the night with his glow-in-the-dark murals of African species throughout our Expedition Africa loop. Virtual reality opportunities further transport guests throughout the world to see incredible animals and places. 

This immersive experience is still taking place Thursdays-Sundays through Jan. 18. Take advantage of our Holiday Special when you buy two tickets to Lights On for just $70! Tickets valid for any Lights On night now through Jan. 18, 2026. 

As a not-for-profit organization, your visit supports our critical missions in animal wellness, conservation and education. Thank you! 

Visit https://brevardzoo.org/lights-on-a-nighttime-art-experience/ to learn more.  

We would like to thank the following generous donors for supporting our mission-based programs:
Flammio Financial Group · Stifel- Garvin Wealth Management Group · Artemis IT · Pepsi Bottling Company · Amazon · PCL Construction | Nassal | MEC | Heard