The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will host a quieter, limited-capacity preview of its Wildlights display on Nov. 17. The Sensory-Friendly Light Stroll is built for visitors who benefit from smaller crowds, reduced sound and spaces to step away.

The event runs Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., three days before the regular Wildlights season opens Nov. 20. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Admission is free for zoo members, but pre-registration is required, according to the zoo's event page.

Background music and carousel music will be turned down for the evening, and attendance will be capped below a typical Wildlights night, 1808Delaware reported. The zoo's 1914 Grand Carousel will operate at no extra charge, though required safety announcements will remain. The zoo train will not run, and only a limited number of indoor spaces and animal areas will be open.

The zoo describes the evening as a modified experience, not a complete version of regular Wildlights. Some sounds and visual elements tied to safety cannot be changed.

A calming room will be available for guests who need a quiet space. Sensory kits containing noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses and fidget devices can be borrowed from Guest Relations with a $10 refundable deposit.

Families can prepare ahead of time using the zoo's accessibility resources, which include sensory maps marking quieter zones and areas with louder noises, strong smells or low lighting. Social stories that walk through parts of a zoo visit are also available on that page.

The zoo already offers monthly Quiet Hours on the first Sunday of each month during regular daytime hours. The Nov. 17 stroll applies a similar approach to the holiday light display.

Regular Wildlights runs Nov. 20 through Jan. 3, 2027, featuring millions of lights, animated shows, rides and other holiday attractions. Tickets and registration details for the Sensory-Friendly Light Stroll are available on the zoo's event page.

Upcoming community events

  • Tuesday, Oct. 27 — Berlin High School drive-thru flu clinic
  • Before Oct. 31 — Halloween events across Powell
  • Tuesday, Nov. 17 — Sensory-Friendly Light Stroll, Columbus Zoo, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
  • Friday, Nov. 20 — Wildlights season opens at the Columbus Zoo