Promotions

This winter, the China Lights at Cologne Zoo will take place from December 11, 2026, to January 31, 2027. This marks the seventh edition of the popular light festival, which will feature a brand-new theme: "Journey Around the World."

What to expect from the “Journey Around the World”

Across the zoo’s approximately 20-hectare grounds, 64 light displays featuring over 1,000 individual figures are being set up. In total, more than 4,000 LED lights and over 15 kilometers of string lights are being used.

• World-famous landmarks: Giant, illuminated sculptures include the Eiffel Tower from Paris, the Statue of Liberty from New York, the Pyramids of Giza, Rio’s Sugarloaf Mountain, and a massive recreation of the Forbidden City.

• Animal companions: The structures are flanked by illuminated animal and fantasy figures crafted in a traditional Asian style. Even the famous FC mascot—Hennes IX, the billy goat—appears as a light display.

• Interactive stations: There are various interactive elements, such as a bee-themed memory game, a talking parrot sculpture, sound effects, and dedicated photo spots.

• Food and drink: The zoo’s catering services offer a variety of winter-themed culinary treats along the walking route.

Opening Hours & Admission

• Daily from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
• Exceptions: The exhibition is closed on Christmas Eve (December 24) and New Year’s Eve (December 31).
• Last admission: 8:30 PM.

• Insider tip from the zoo: The tour takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Experience shows that arriving from 6:15 PM onwards is much more relaxed than arriving right at the start at 5:30 PM, as long queues often form at the beginning (especially on weekends).

Tickets and Prices

Advance sales have already begun via the Cologne Zoo ticket shop. It is highly recommended to secure your tickets online in advance:
• Date-specific online tickets:
    • Adults: from €22.00
    • Children (aged 4 to 12): from €12.00
    • Children under 4 years of age are admitted free of charge.

• Flex tickets (not tied to a specific date): If you decide on the spur of the moment to attend for an evening, flex tickets are available for €28.00 (adults) or €15.00 (children).