The Calgary Zoo is lighting up for the holidays again, with Zoolights running nightly from November 14 to January 4. The beloved tradition transforms the zoo into a glowing winter wonderland with new light displays and returning favourites. Alison Archambault, the zoo's director of brand and public relations, says the event brings generations together while supporting conservation work.

This year brings some fun new additions. Roaming elves will interact with guests in the Festive Forest, and the Holiday Gardens feature singing trees alongside a choreographed light show. A massive 100-foot light tunnel leads visitors into the Savannah Sparkle zone, while the North Pole theme takes over Penguin Plaza with snowflake lights and a hot chocolate bar. Santa will be greeting families in his Polar Palace from November 14 to December 23.

The zoo is making it easier to attend with several ticket options. Sunlight to Zoolights passes let you visit during the day and stay for the lights in the evening. Merry Mondays offer 20 per cent off for the first five Mondays of the season, and a new partnership with the Calgary Tower combines both attractions. Free carousel rides run every night, and you can book everything from festive buffets to private heated snow globes.