Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular 2026: Free Lights in West Orange

Essex County’s Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange puts on one of New Jersey’s best free holiday light displays. The Holiday Lights Spectacular is a winter lights walk with more than 50 animal and winter characters, plus themed activities on December weekends and visits from Santa.

The display runs nightly from 5 to 9 p.m. through December 31 (closed December 24–25). In 2025 it opened November 21; expect a similar late-November start in 2026.

Quick Facts

Tips

Weekends bring Santa and themed activities, so they’re busier. Weeknights are relaxed. Next door, the South Mountain Recreation Complex has an ice rink. For more North Jersey ideas, see our Christmas in New Jersey guide.

About Turtle Back Zoo

The Essex County Turtle Back Zoo opened in 1963 in West Orange and is named for a rock formation nearby that resembles a turtle’s shell. It has grown into one of New Jersey’s most popular zoos, with animals from around the world, a carousel, a train and a reptile house.

Tips

• Go on a weeknight for the calmest visit.
• Come on a weekend if you want to meet Santa.
• Bring donations for the holiday drive: non-perishable food, new toys or coats.
• Ride the train for a different view of the lights.

Getting There

The zoo is in South Mountain Reservation, about 30–40 minutes from Manhattan by car. There’s no direct train; NJ Transit to South Orange plus a taxi is an option.

More in New Jersey

See New Jersey Christmas lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular free?

Yes, admission is free. Donations for the holiday giving drive are encouraged, and some rides cost extra.

What are the hours?

5 to 9 p.m. nightly through December 31, closed December 24 and 25.