ARIZONA NEWS

Christmas in July? Phoenix Zoo is already prepping for holiday ZooLights

Jul 19, 2018, 7:45 PM

(Courtesy: Phoenix Zoo)...

(Courtesy: Phoenix Zoo)

(Courtesy: Phoenix Zoo)

PHOENIX — With the temperatures in the Valley still well into the triple-digits and monsoon storms swirling all around, it seems unlikely that the holiday season is on anyone’s mind (except for those wishing for cooler temperatures).

But the staff at Phoenix Zoo is already hard at work preparing for the holidays.

Linda Hardwick, the director of communications with the Phoenix Zoo, said in an email this week that the zoo has kicked off its months-long preparation for the annual ZooLights show.

“With millions of lights to place and hundreds of sparkling displays, the ZooLights team is braving the 100+ temperatures and are already hard at work prepping for the next season of one of the largest light shows in the Southwest,” she said.

“This dedicated crew works tirelessly beginning early July to have ZooLights looking perfect for opening night.”

ZooLights, an event described as a “magical event that will illuminate your holiday season,” kicks off on Nov. 21 and runs through Jan. 13.

Last year, visitors could also participate in carousel rides, take photos with Santa Claus and play in the nightly “snowfall.”

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Christmas in July? Phoenix Zoo is already prepping for holiday ZooLights