ZooLights brings glowing animal lanterns, virtual reality experience to the National Zoo

ZooLights returned to the Smithsonian National Zoo this Friday, bringing animal-themed holiday cheer to the region. The decorations will be up from Nov. 29 until Jan. 1, excluding Dec. 24, 25 and 31.

Thousands of visitors will trek through the zoo after dark to watch the spectacle sponsored by Pepco.

Over 500,000 LED lights went in to transforming the zoo into a shining winter wonderland this year.

Visitors can also check out a new virtual reality display called “Pandamonium” that allows for a close encounter with giant pandas Bei Bei, Bao Bao and their parents. Showtimes and details about the film are available on the Smithsonian’s website.

See photos and video of opening night.

ZooLights returned to the National Zoo on Friday, with some brand-new additions to the luminary spectacle for 2019. (WTOP/Liz Anderson)

ZooLights returns to the National Zoo from Nov. 29 until Jan. 1.
ZooLights returns to the National Zoo from Nov. 29 until Jan. 1.
ZooLights returns to the National Zoo from Nov. 29 until Jan. 1.
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