San Diego Zoo Jungle Bells Select Dates Dec 19-Jan 4

Jungle Bells

December 19, 2025 – January 4, 2026*

 

Experience the magic and the spirit of the holiday season! Join us for the jolly return of Jungle Bells, when we light up the night until 8 p.m. with amazing entertainment and merry experiences. Bring the whole family and enjoy the warmth of the holidays during this joyous annual celebration.

 

Jungle Bells activities are included with all admission tickets and memberships.

*Excluding December 24; Santa’s Factory opens November 28

 

FRONT STREET

Jingle Brass

Jingle Brass

  • 4:30, 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m. (25 minutes)
  • Front Street Stage, Front Street

This brass ensemble brings the holiday spirit as they play seasonal favorites throughout the evening.

Reindeer Games

Reindeer Games

  • 5, 6, and 7 p.m. (25 minutes)
  • Front Street Stage, Front Street

Join the fun as wildlife explorers of all ages take part in interactive holiday games and dances that will get everyone in a jolly mood.

WILDLIFE EXPLORERS BASECAMP

Juggler in holiday clothing

Jack Frost Juggler

  • 4, 5, 6, and 7 p.m. (30 minutes)
  • Roaming through Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

The winter wonder shows off amazing juggling skills, bringing a magical winter chill to the air.

Guitarist playing music

Holiday Troubadour

  • 4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 p.m. (30 minutes)
  • Roaming through Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

Our strolling acoustic singer and guitarist delights guests with engaging performances, welcoming you to sing along to fun holiday classics.

URBAN JUNGLE AND OUTBACK

Acrobats in elf costumes

Toy Shop Hop

  • 3, 4, 5, and 6 p.m. (15 minutes)
  • Sydney’s Grill, Urban Jungle

Santa’s acrobatic elves show off their bouncing, high-flying holiday magic in this remarkable display of skill and athleticism.

Dr. Harry & His Holiday Friends with mom and daughter

Dr. Harry & His Holiday Friends

  • 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. (25 minutes)
  • Boardwalk Beer Garden, Outback

Meet Santa’s favorite helpers! Friendly Zoo characters Dr. Harry Lion, Churchill Polar Bear, Sydney Koala, and all their friends will be dressed in their holiday finest, ready to strike a pose with you.

Christmas singers

Holiday Harmonies

  • 5:30, 6, 6:30, and 7 p.m. (20 minutes)
  • Boardwalk Beer Garden, Outback

This talented a cappella quartet brings their unique arrangements of holiday classics to the Boardwalk stage, featuring a dusting of winter “snow” during their finale.

AFRICA ROCKS

Dr Zoolittle in Christmas wear with microphone

Dr. Zoolittle's One Wild Night Before Christmas

  • 4, 5, 6, and 7 p.m. (20 minutes)
  • Africa Rocks Stage, Africa Rocks

The inimitable Dr. Z gets into the spirit of the season by telling his own zany, interactive version of this classic tale.

LOST FOREST 

Santa

Santa’s Factory

  • November 28–30: Noon–6 p.m.; December 6–7, December 13–14, and December 24: Noon–4 p.m.; December 19–23 and December 25: Noon–8 p.m.
  • Price Education Center, Lost Forest

Holiday wishes are for everyone! You’ll love stopping by Santa’s Factory where guests of all ages can visit and have their photo taken with the jolly ol’ elf himself.

HOLIDAY LIGHT TREKS

Holiday Lights

Holiday Light Discovery

  • 5–8 p.m. (Continuous)
  • Tiger Trail, Lost Forest

Venture down to explore the Painted Jungle, Rainbow Forest, and Laser Trail, where sparkling paths of lights, special effects, and seasonal surprises await you.

Holiday Light Celebration

Holiday Light Celebration

  • 5–8 p.m. (Continuous)
  • Bus Tour Unloading to Outback, Front Street

Celebrate the season in glimmering color on this interactive lighted pathway adorned with shimmering treats, presents, and lights.

Family under holiday lights

Holiday Light Symphony

  • 5–8 p.m. (Continuous)
  • Cactus Garden, Upper Africa Rocks

Join the holiday orchestra! In this interactive area, you’re invited to set the colorful lights and beautiful music in motion, then step back to enjoy the joyous sights and sounds.

ShopZoo - Boy and girl wearing Spooky Halloween clothing
Feelin’ Spooky

Hauntingly adorable styles just for you

Hotel with pool
Creature Comforts

PREFERRED HOTELS

HALGLOWEEN at the San Diego Zoo Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, October 3-31
Let's Glow

THE GLITTERING EXTRAVAGANZA IS HERE

SDZWA adventures botswana elephant
SDZWA Adventures

Come Travel with Us!