Washington, D.C.’s beloved family-oriented winter attraction, ZooLights, is set to return and illuminate the holiday season at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Celebrating its 15th year, ZooLights will be held between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., except on Sundays when it will conclude at 8 p.m.

In a new development, a nominal fee of $6 per attendee has been introduced, marking a departure from the previous practice of free admission. This change applies to all guests, including children aged 2 and above. However, on regular admission nights, the indoor animal exhibits will remain closed to ensure the animals receive a full night’s rest. This announcement was made on the Zoolights website which also mentioned a number of other changes to this year’s event.

Visitors who wish to observe the Zoo’s animals during daytime hours can obtain complimentary entry passes and/or purchase parking passes through the Zoo’s official website. Additionally, Smithsonian National Zoo members have the opportunity to reserve up to six free entry passes and one complimentary parking pass for three exclusive Member Nights.

The news of the new ticket price did not go down with locals. On one internet forum, one user wrote: “You also can’t visit any of the animals anymore. Zoo Lights is now only the worst part of visiting the zoo – walking up and down the hill. The corridor is sure to be crowded too. They ruined a great event.”