Step into another world with Holiday Nights at Zoo Montana, where ordinary life transforms into a magical wonderland. This must-see Christmas event brings yuletide joy with light, music and holiday-themed food and drink in Santa’s winter village. Large-scale light displays of more than 10 million lights create shimmering walkways for celebratory strolls that spark the Christmas spirit in people of all ages.
“For anyone who loves Christmas, Holiday Nights is something unique,” said Josh Benson, one of three Holiday Nights founders. “It’s the biggest show from here to Boise, and unlike anything Montana has experienced. It enhances the Christmas experience not just for our community of Billings, but throughout the entire region of Montana, Wyoming, and North Dakota.”
The festivities begin Nov. 25 and run through Dec. 31 (closed Dec. 24 and 25), with event hours from 5 p.m to 9 p.m. for guests of all ages. An admission ticket is valid for any night the event is running, with additional experiences such as private s'mores huts and sleigh rides available for purchase.
The fire is so delightful
Cozy up to a blazing fire in your private s’mores hut for six people, which you can rent in advance. Event staff builds and tends the yule logs for you and supplies all the goodies you need to make the melty favorites: marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers. A Christmas character will stop by your tent between 7 and 8 p.m., so get ready to capture the memories with priceless photos.
Private s'mores hut available for rental
Eat, drink and be merry
Warm your insides with hot chocolate and apple cider, or stop by Blitzen’s Lounge where adults 21+ can enjoy special Christmas cocktails or sample Santa’s ale. Christmas-inspired snacks and treats are also available. Purchase your tickets for food and drink at the booth at the Holiday Nights entrance.
Family fun, holiday romance
Pull out your favorite Christmas sweater, scarf and mittens and gather your family at Holiday Nights to establish new, cherished Christmas traditions. Visitors of all ages can create special evenings at Holiday Lights. Hop onto a sleigh for a romantic ride to see the old zoo lights, or walk hand in hand through the lights, garlands and gossamer with a stop under the mistletoe, of course.
Sing glad tidings
It wouldn’t be Christmas without those classic holiday tunes. Your favorite Christmas music can be heard throughout the venue every night, with a live acoustic guitar performance on Saturdays in Santa’s Market and holiday standards in the Sensory Garden and Plaza areas.
Thoughtful, creative gifts
Making your Christmas list and checking it twice? A gift of tickets to Holiday Lights gives family members, friends or co-workers an experience they’ll savor long after the holidays. Those memorable photos you take with Santa while your family revels in Holiday Nights can be given as treasured gifts too.
Festive holiday lights abound
Liven up the office
Infuse the office party with unique holiday glee by gathering at Holiday Nights. Arrange for a private corporate tent for up to 40 people, with catering options available. Benson advised booking soon and predicted the tents will sell out quickly.
Need extra accommodations? Just ask
If you need a golf cart to get around the event, call the front office or send an email 24 hours in advance of your visit to arrange additional accommodations. If your group includes tots who might need a change, ask any staff member on-site to direct you to an indoor diaper-changing station. Visit holiday-nights.com for more information or to reserve accommodations.
In case the weather is frightful
Extreme cold or excessive snowfall may cancel the event. Check the Holiday Nights Facebook page or Instagram account for the latest information and updates.
The most wonderful time
Experience Holiday Nights at Zoo Montana, located at 2100 S. Shilo Road in Billings. To purchase tickets or reserve a tent, visit the Holiday Nights website.
