It’s the season to sparkle. Among the most beloved Houston holiday traditions is the ever-bright Houston Zoo Lights. Ahead of its season debut, the zoo will host a special adults-only night of Zoo Lights: Sip & Sparkle.
Taking place tonight, Thursday, November 20, Sip & Sparkle is a special adults-only experience where those young at heart can marvel at the zoo’s wild and wonderful seasonal experience. Wine tastings will be available in multiple areas throughout the grounds, as well as special spiked hot chocolate (available for additional purchase).
In addition to tastings and all the luminous photo-ops for the taking, Sip & Sparkle will also feature a string quartet performance and illuminated dance floor.
Most of all, visitors will be able to experience the glory of Zoo Lights before its official season debut. This year, the zoo is introducing a wild variety of new experiences including its Iridescent Immersion inside the Great Ape gallery, Neon Playground, and special Yuletide Lodge pop-up bar — it is unclear whether the latter will be made available at Sip & Sparkle.
New experiences also include its Wild Wonder Lights, a brilliant projection-mapping display in the McGovern Front Plaza, and color, fountain exhibit, Holiday Grove.
Returning experiences at Zoo Lights include its Whimsical Wildlife Tree by the Reflection Pool, Geo-Prism Safari, Enchanted Forest, snowing Winter Wonderland, and Santa’s Workshop at Cypress Circle Cafe.
Sip & Sparkle takes place on Thursday, November 20, from 6:30 pm — 10 pm. VIP entry is at 6 pm, while last entry is at 8:30 pm.
Tickets to Sip & Sparkle start at $49, which grants entrance. Visitors can opt for the Tasting Pass priced at $65 which includes a wine tasting card, souvenir cup, and six 2-oz wine samples from its on-site wineries. VIP passes are available priced at $139, which grant early entrance, dedicated VIP lines, and access to the VIP lounge.
If you’re unable to attend Sip & Sparkle, you can still enjoy the magic of Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo between November 21 through January 4.