Photos by Cheryl Landes

The holidays are a few days longer this season at the Oregon Zoo, as it keeps its ZooLights display open longer than usual after the new year begins. Typically, the zoo’s last illumination is on New Year’s night, but this time, it closes on Sunday, January 7.

Wander through the glittering 1.5 million lights. Ride the lighted steam train. Grab some dinner or a snack from the food carts. Say hello to the elephants, penguins, and other animals still awake after dark.

Kids can ride the carousel and pose for pictures with Santa.

ZooLights’ hours are 5-9 p.m. through December 31 and January 5-7. ZooLights is closed January 1-4. The grounds stay open for an hour after the gate closes.

The Oregon Zoo is located at 4001 SW Canyon Road in Portland. Pay parking is available, but the lot fills quickly on busy nights. The zoo recommends public transportation and offers discounts on admission when you show your MAX light rail ticket at the gate. If you take MAX, the Blue and Red Lines stop at the Washington Park station, across the street from the zoo (plan your MAX trip).

For more information, visit ZooLights’ website or call (503) 226-1561.

See more pictures of ZooLights.