Here’s what awaits families in 2024 that are looking to experience the magic of the season by celebrating at the San Diego Zoo.
Me Having Fun at the Food, Wine and Brew at the San Diego Zoo
Jingle Brass
One of the first things that gets me in the holiday spirit each year is when I hear a classic holiday sound like Frosty the Snowman or Jingle Bells. And I especially enjoy the songs when played with a brass band.
The Jingle Brass band takes Front Street Stage to play renditions of festive tunes. Their 25-minute shows run at 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm, and 7:30pm.
Reindeer Games
Sharing Front Street Stage with Jingle Brass are fun interactive Reindeer Games that invite kids to dance and play along. These begin on the hour at 5:00pm, 6:00pm, and 7:00pm.
Jack Frost Juggler
You can see Jack Frost’s juggling skills around Wildlife Explorers Basecamp. Shows will take place at 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm, and 7:00pm, and last 30 minutes.
Holiday Troubadour
The Holiday Troubadour will make the rounds at Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, performing holiday classics on acoustic guitar at 4:30pm, 5:30pm, and 6:30pm.
Additional Highlights
The fun continues as you work your way through the San Diego Zoo park.
Kids can sit on Santa Claus’s lap and have their picture taken on select dates at Santa’s Factory in the Price Education Center of the Lost Forest. They’re also invited to listen to a wildlife-themed take on a classic story with Dr. Zoolittle's One Wild Night Before Christmas, which is at Stage Rocks Box in the Africa Rocks area.
Plus, there are plenty of fun activities that await at the Urban Jungle and Outback!
Toy Shop Hop
If you’ve ever wanted to see elves doing aerial acrobatic tricks, the Toy Shop Hop show offers a new look at Santa’s helpers when they perform at Sydney’s Grill in Urban Jungle.
15-minute shows will be held at 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, and 6:00pm.
Dr. Harry & His Holiday Friends
You can meet the zoo’s mascots to wish them a Merry Christmas and snap some photos over by the Outback’s Boardwalk Beer Garden as well. Dr. Harry and friends will be there waiting to say hi to you and your kids this holiday season!
Meet and greet sessions last about 25 minutes and will be held twice daily, at 3:30pm and 4:30pm.
The Tinseltones
Alternating with Dr. Harry & His Holiday Friends, you’ll find The Tinseltones, who will be singing holiday songs as an a capella quartet. Join these carolers for fun renditions of the classics, plus a wintery surprise as “snow” falls in the San Diego Zoo during their finale!
20-minute performances will be held at 5:15pm, 5:45pm, 6:15pm, and 6:45pm.