Last year around this time, a friend suddenly suggested going to Zoo Lights on a Friday evening, and I went along. We drove to Hermann Park, but we couldn't buy tickets at the entrance and ended up turning back. That's when I first learned that this event isn't one where you can buy tickets on-site.

This year, I've organized the details in advance. The TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo starts on November 19. This is based on the press release issued by the zoo on October 14.

The season runs from November 19 to January 3. The zoo will be closed on December 9 and Christmas Eve, so just avoid those two dates when planning your visit.

Operating hours are daily from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, with the last entry at 9:30 PM. The daytime zoo closes at 4 PM and reopens for Zoo Lights at 5:30 PM. You can't just stay from the daytime visit into the evening event.

The most important part: how to buy tickets. The press release clearly states, "Tickets must be purchased online in advance." This means you need to buy them online ahead of time, and if you expect to purchase them on-site, you might end up like me, making a wasted trip.

You can purchase tickets by going to the Zoo Lights ticket page on houstonzoo.org. You select a date and choose an entry time. You can only enter on the date printed on your ticket, and after the specified arrival time, you can enter at any time.

One important thing to note: the official page states that all payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. Also, the event will proceed rain or shine.

So, it's wise to check the weather app before making your payment. Everyone knows Houston's November weather can change from short sleeves to winter coats in a day.

I found the pricing a bit confusing. The general admission price isn't fixed on the event page; it appears on the payment screen after you select a date. The zoo advises that the earlier you buy, the better price you can get.

For reference, the ticket price listed on the choir performance page is $29.95 per ticket. This is a group rate, so it may not be the same as the general ticket price. Use it just as a rough estimate.

If you have kids, check this out too. Children under two are free, but kids three and older need their own tickets. Strollers and scooters are available for rent, but only credit cards are accepted.

There are some nice discounts available. Zoo members receive a 20% discount throughout the season. Additionally, on November 17 and 18, member preview nights are $14.95 per person.

First responders like military personnel, firefighters, police, and EMTs, as well as educators, receive a 10% discount. You need to show ID at entry, and it applies to a maximum of five tickets.

Community Appreciation Week in mid-December is also worth noting. On December 14, senior night is free for those 65 and older, and family tickets are $19.95. This seems like the best day to take your parents.

The 15th is for first responders and military, the 16th is for college students, and the 17th is for educators. The eligible person is free, and accompanying tickets are $25.95. ID is required, and discounts apply to a maximum of six tickets.

There's something new this year too. For the first time, the event will open on Christmas night. The first 2,000 guests will receive ornaments, and 1,500 will get HoloSpex glasses.

Every Friday is "Fridays for Wildlife," where the first 2,000 guests receive animal-themed ornaments. This will happen every Friday until December 25.

On Friday, November 20, there will be a Wine Fest for those 21 and older. This is a separate event from Zoo Lights, so you'll need to book tickets separately.

For families seeking a quieter experience, there will be a Sensory Inclusive Night on Monday, November 30. They will reduce the number of attendees, lower the music volume, and limit flashing lights. I think this consideration is really great.

There are also some newly revamped exhibits. The animal lanterns in the Gateway to Wonder and the Celestial Flight, which features lights on a 100-year-old oak tree, are updated areas this year.

One common misconception is that animals are resting at night, so if your goal is to see animals, the zoo advises visiting during the day. Zoo Lights is primarily an event to see the lights.

Parking is crucial; you need to arrive early. The zoo doesn't have its own parking lot, and the Hermann Park free parking fills up quickly, as noted on the official page.

Therefore, the zoo recommends using rideshare or METRORail. There are also paid parking garages nearby, like the one at 6400 Fannin. On weekends, I would just take the rail.

Check the entrance as well. The main entrance is at 6200 Hermann Park Drive, and during this period, the Medical Center entrance will not be open. If you navigate to the wrong entrance, you'll have a long walk.

In summary, the steps are simple: choose a date, avoid the two closed days, check the weather, and pay online. If you're eligible for discounts, remember to bring your ID.

Personally, I recommend going on a weekday evening when it's less crowded, and aiming for the 5:30 PM opening time. This way, you won't have to worry about parking and it will be much easier to take photos.

Schedules and prices may change, so be sure to check the official page right before you make your payment. I hope everyone enjoys the event this year without having to turn back at the entrance.