When the first wisp of winter fills the air, and we cozy closer to our loved ones, we know the most magical time of year has made its way to town. Jungle Bells transforms the San Diego Zoo into a wonderland of seasonal fun, packed with family-friendly activities and delicious offerings you won’t find anywhere else.
Every visit to the Zoo is special as you connect with wildlife, and Jungle Bells takes it to the next level, sprinkling it with holiday cheer. It’s the perfect blend of nature’s wonder and festive magic, creating memories that will warm your heart on a cool San Diego evening.
Jingle Brass fills Front Street with the swinging sounds of New Orleans.
Toe-Tapping Tunes
You’ll be humming with the holidays as you enjoy merry music throughout the Zoo. Jingle Brass kicks things off on Front Street with jazzy takes on seasonal favorites. Nearby, the Holiday Troubadour will stroll through Wildlife Explorers Basecamp and right into your heart with an acoustic sing-along for the whole family. And over in the Conrad Prebys Australian Outback, the a cappella quartet Holiday Harmonies will bring the night to life with unique arrangements—and a powdery dusting of snow.
A special guest from way up north is excited to see you at Jungle Bells.
“Oohs” and “Aahs” Await
If one-of-a-kind experiences are on your wish list this season, then Jungle Bells has you covered. From the acrobatic elves of Toy Shop Hop to the awe-inspiring Jack Frost Juggler, we’ll wow you with festive feats of daring and skill. If the little ones need to get the wiggles out, head over to Reindeer Games, where wildlife explorers of all ages can take part in exciting holiday games and dances.
As you stroll through the Zoo, light up your night as you encounter our three Holiday Light locations. Shimmering colors, special effects, and beautiful music transform the pathways into immersive, interactive displays. Discover them in Front Street, Lost Forest, and Africa Rocks.
There’s a very special visitor waiting for you too. You don’t have to trek all the way to the North Pole to see Santa: he’s in Lost Forest, ready to snap a picture and hear what you’re hoping to find under the tree.
We’ve serving up a slice of the season with the Holly Jolly Hot Honey Pizza.
Savor the Season
All this festive fun will work up your appetite, and we have tasty tidbits around every corner. Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas at Sabertooth Grill will keep you warm all night long, while Safari Kitchen’s Cranberry Chicken Sandwich is filled with the flavors of a holiday feast. And nothing says winter comfort food like Hua Mei Café’s steaming bowl of Tonkatsu Ramen.
If pizza’s your thing, the sweet-and-spicy Holly Jolly Hot Honey Pizza at Busy Bee Café will put some pep-peroni in your step, and Lagoon Terrance’s Pesto Pizza is bursting with fresh basil flavor.
No holiday celebration is complete without a decadent dessert. You'll spin with delight for the Spiral Churro Sundae at Sandwich Company and get tied up in knots over the Caramel Toffee Pretzel at Treetops Canteen. Jungle Bells is full of sugar, spice, and everything nice!
The Gingerbread Latte is packed with a lot-te of flavor and fun.
A Toast to You
You’ll be sipping and skipping through Jungle Bells with our delectable menu of drinks. The Gingerbread Latte at Sweets and Treats will perk you up for your adventure, and the trio of Cold Foam Sodas at Busy Bee Cocktails will cool you down.
Chocolate fanatics, we have something for you too: the Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate at Java Cart and Cajeta Hot Chocolate at Zoo Brew will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you comfy and cozy.
Want a little extra kick in your refreshments? Albert’s Restaurant is crafting cocktails just for the holiday season, like the perfectly balanced Mistle Toad, Snowman-atee, and Jungle Bears. And if you’re looking to imbibe without the booze, you’ll love the Blizzard Lizard mocktail we have waiting for you.
You’ll have a happy capy holiday with our limited edition plushes, like capybaras, rhinos, red pandas, and more.
Holiday Shopping Made Easy
Take the ho-ho-ho’s home with you at the end of your Jungle Bells journey. Our shops throughout the Zoo are overflowing with the perfect stocking stuffers for your family, friends, or even yourself.
From gingerbread-themed shirts to red-and-white panda necklaces, we have the clothing and jewelry to bring festive flair to your fashion. You can spruce up your spruce tree too with a lineup of picture-perfect ornaments. And when you get home at the end of the night, snuggle with your adorable animal plushes and dream about the wondrous Jungle Bells experience you just enjoyed.
From the tall to the small, everyone will find something magical at Jungle Bells.
Join the Joy
As the holidays sparkle to life, Jungle Bells at the Zoo is your ticket to a truly unforgettable adventure. From awe-inspiring activities and scrumptious treats to the thrill of connecting with wildlife, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy. Best of all, your visit helps support our global conservation efforts, making your trip a gift that gives long after the season ends.
For more details about Jungle Bells, please visit zoo.sandiegozoo.org/jungle-bells. Excludes December 24. Programming and menu items are subject to change. Hours and availability may vary.
