All photos by Cheryl Landes

More than a half million lights bring the holiday spirit alive at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma.

Walk under a giant octopus when you enter the zoo.

Stroll pathways lined with twinkling trees and shrubs.

Cheer for the Seahawks at the 12th Man tree.

See sea creatures all aglow in an underwater landscape. Then stop at three open aquariums to watch real sharks, jellyfish, seahorses, an octopus, and more.

You’ll also see 3D sea creatures.

Greet a python.

Pet goats, ride the antique carousel, and ride a camel. Look for these lights to find the camel rides.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is located at 5400 N Pearl Street, on the northern tip of Point Defiance Park (view directions). Parking is free.

ZooLights is open the day after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, 5-9 p.m., except Christmas Eve. Admission is $10 at the gate or $8 online ages 3 and older, and free ages 2 and younger (buy tickets). Or choose a combo pass, which covers daytime entry to the zoo and allows you to stay after closing for ZooLights. Combo pass prices are $16 adults 13-64, $15.50 seniors 65 and older, $14 youth ages 5-12, $12 tots ages 3-4, and free ages 2 and younger.

For more information, visit the ZooLights webpage or call (253) 591-5337.