Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor
Portland, Oregon, is home to the Oregon Zoo. Founded in 1888, it’s become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. Housing more than 2,000 animals, it also includes some species that are endangered or threatened.
The zoo has an annual tradition of “ZooLights,” a holiday lights display featuring a colorful light show, interactive displays, lanterns in the shape of life-size animals and other creative animal-themed attractions. This holiday season, it was open Nov. 22 – Jan. 5.
The Oregon Zoo offered a night of light displays that were sensory-friendly, with modified lights and sounds for people with different sensory processing needs. The zoo also offered two nights for anyone over the age of 21. “BrewLights” is an adult-only festival with samples available from over 50 breweries and cideries in the Northwest.
Every night of “ZooLights” had much more than the sparkling lights. There were warm beverages, many food options and souvenirs to remember the event.
The holiday lights have been a beloved tradition for almost 40 years. In 2020, the Oregon Zoo made the light display a drive-through event to comply with COVID regulations. In 2023, it came back full force by returning to its original walk-through format. This year, there were over 20 light displays, including a decorated train that rolled through the zoo.
The Oregon Zoo made sure that humans weren’t alone in celebrating the holidays by involving many animals in winter festivities.
The zoo’s Instagram account — @oregonzoo — posted several pictures Dec. 25 of their animals receiving Christmas presents. Many animals, including a red panda, a polar bear and a giraffe posed with festive wrapping paper for their moment in the spotlight.
A red panda named Moshu has become a fan-favorite of Oregon Zoo enthusiasts. Moshu was first brought to the zoo in 2019 when he was seven years old. The red panda is now 13 years old and was diagnosed with heart disease in April 2024. Despite his old age and his diagnosis, Moshu’s health has stabilized and he is doing well.
Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu
