Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo December 10, 2021 through January 2, 2022
This year's Jungle Bells brings the return of Aurora—a magical and spectacular experience with lights, 3D projections, and music. Also enjoy traditional lighting displays, musical performances and entertainment, visits with Santa (through December 25), tasty holiday treats, and much more. 'Tis the season to celebrate—join us for holiday cheer!
Visitors to Jungle Bells won’t want to miss “Aurora,” an exciting visual and sound experience that weaves 3D projections, music and light into a spectacular performance. Friendly mythical wind, water and ice sprites share their stories, as well as the power of nature contained within their mystical orbs. As the performance comes to a dramatic and beautiful conclusion, the Aurora Borealis appears—the only time it has been seen in San Diego! “Aurora” takes place twice nightly (except Dec.24) at Hua Mei Plaza, at 6:30 p.m. and at 7:40 p.m.
In addition to “Aurora,” Jungle Bells is full of exciting experiences, including Dr. Zoolittle’s animal-themed version of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” the Northern Frontier Holiday Forest aglow with specially decorated and lighted trees, and the toog tree on Front Street, which doesn't just light up, it appears to come to life, "dancing" to sounds of the season. Guests can visit Santa at Gingerbread Landing, see some of Santa’s elves as they keep things hopping with their energetic trampoline performance at the “Toy Shop Hop,” enjoy a jazzy carol session and strolling musicians, join in the Reindeer Games on the main plaza and meet larger-than-life friendly Zoo characters like Dr. Harry Lion, Churchill Polar Bear, Sydney Koala and their friends.
Jungle Bells is not just about holiday sights and sounds, but also delicious holiday smells and tastes from seasonal treats like hot chocolate and cookies, and other culinary delights offered at the Zoo’s restaurants and food stands. Located just outside the Zoo exit, the beloved Balboa Park Miniature Train will be running during Jungle Bells. Train tickets are $3 for ages 1 and older; children younger than age 1 are free. Ages 5 and younger must ride with a paying adult.
Those looking for something extra special to do during Jungle Bells can enjoy a 90-minute Inside Look Twilight Tour, available for a limited time only. This evening tour features a special look at animals that are just waking up as the sun goes down. Reservations are required. For prices, times and more information, visit sandiegozoo.org.
The San Diego Zoo is once again welcoming California Coast Credit Union as the presenting sponsor for Jungle Bells 2021. With over 24 branches in Southern California, California Coast is the longest serving financial institution in San Diego County. It is also San Diego’s oldest financial institution (almost as old as the Zoo), having been founded in 1929 by teachers.
Jungle Bells is scheduled Dec. 10, 2021 through Jan. 2, 2022. The San Diego Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. during this event, except for Dec. 24 when the Zoo closes at 5 p.m. Jungle Bells activities are free with Zoo admission or membership. Parking is free. Visit sandiegozoo.org/junglebells.
