The National Zoo is About to Light Up Big Time

WASHINGTON, DC — Get ready for a National Zoo experience like no other: 500,000 LED lights are about to turn the zoo into a holiday spectacle starting Friday, Nov. 25.

The free event will run from Nov. 25 through Jan. 1 (except Dec. 24 and 25) and will feature lots of special events, including music performances, winter treats and holiday shopping as you wander through the beautiful light show and gaze at nocturnal critters, according to a statement from the Smithsonian.

The Small Mammal House, Reptile Discovery Center and Think Tank are open every night, and this will provide quite a different Zoo experience than you're used to.

The attractions include the Smithsonian National Zoo Choo-Choo, a trackless train that brings guests all around the zoo to view animals and the incredible light displays. You can also participate in snow-less tubing and go flying down a 150-foot track. Or you can get on a special carousel that "highlights the Zoo's incredible research and success stories," the statement notes.

There will also be special theme nights, including BrewLights on Dec. 1, Military Night on Dec. 2, and Date Night on Dec. 8.

Gift shops will be located throughout the park, so it's also a good opportunity to get in some holiday shopping.

Image via the National Zoo