BIG BEAR, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Big Bear is shining brighter this season with the debut of Alpine Zoo Wild Lights, an immersive, after-hours holiday light walk transforming the Big Bear Alpine Zoo into a glowing alpine wonderland.
Running now through January 4, 2026, the family-friendly event features nearly two million LED and solar-powered lights, making it one of the largest light displays in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Produced by Visit Big Bear and hosted at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, the event was made possible through a public-private partnership approved by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, which oversees the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District.
Under the agreement, the district provides venue access and staffing, while Visit Big Bear handles marketing, décor, and ticketing. The event is projected to generate approximately $340,000 in ticket revenue, with 20% of net proceeds benefiting the Alpine Zoo.
“Big Bear has wildlife in our DNA, and the Alpine Zoo is at the heart of it,” said Travis Scott, CEO of Visit Big Bear. “With Alpine Zoo Wild Lights, we’re celebrating the animals that call this mountain home while supporting the zoo’s rehabilitation work and our Care for Big Bear stewardship mission. Just as important, this is for our community — a place for neighbors to gather after dark, celebrate the season, and help our small businesses shine.”
Visitors can explore four themed light zones, each telling a story about wildlife, conservation, and mountain life. Featured installations include a towering 100-foot illuminated pine tree, a two-story golden teddy bear, a walk-through 20-foot ornament, and a glowing Santa’s sleigh centerpiece designed for festive photo ops.
Midway through the walk, guests can stop at the Moonridge Coffee Co. Zoo Café to enjoy hot cocoa, cider, pastries, and seasonal treats in the Village of Light.
The experience concludes in the Care for Big Bear – Dark Sky Grove, a solar-lit sanctuary dedicated to the area’s dark sky initiative. The tranquil zone symbolizes Big Bear’s ongoing efforts to reduce light pollution and preserve natural nightscapes.
Admission is $20, with free entry for Alpine Zoo members and children under 5. The event runs Wednesday through Sunday, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
“It’s our first year hosting this dazzling event — don’t miss your chance to be part of the beginning of a new Big Bear holiday tradition!” the Big Bear Alpine Zoo stated.
For tickets and additional details, visit bigbear.com/alpine-zoo-wild-lights.
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