Cincinnati Family Magazine

Your # 1 Hometown Family Resource

October 9, 2024

Photos by Kelsey Kreke

PNC Festival of Lights Brightens Up the Holidays

Kick off this holiday season with something bright- the PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo!

I love celebrating the holidays early. I know, I know, it’s before Thanksgiving; but, I can’t help it! It gives my family more time to attend festive activities and we love looking at lights!

New this year is light-up cotton candy, a five-foot star for the Vine Street Village tree, and lanterns in the Under the Sea display! A favorite for my family was the Swan Lake light show. Download the new CUE Live app and the flashlight will sync to the show! It was so neat.

 

We found Fiona fairy statues; saw giraffes, insects, reptiles; and took in the beauty of the lights! Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to the Festival of Lights without Visiting Santa’s Village. My son was able to visit with the most magical, cheery Santa and walk a beautiful path of evergreens. He also peeked inside the windows of the gingerbread houses for a whimsical surprise. He said this was his favorite part of the trip! As a mom, it brings me an abundance of joy to see the magic of the holidays through my son’s eyes. 

The 41st PNC Festival of Lights goes on through January 7, 2024. For more information, visit cincinnatizoo.org/events/festival-of-lights

About the Author

Kelsey Kreke

Kelsey is a 32-year-old stay-at-home mom. She loves hanging out with her son, refurbishing furniture and finding new places to explore in the local area!