Christmas in Montana is the most wonderful time of the year. From our Christmas tree lightings and parades to our beloved holiday markets in Montana, state residents have a lot to look forward to during the holiday season. Of course, nothing really ever tops the Montana zoo lights (officially known as ZooLights), the annual illuminated affair at ZooMontana in Billings. And since there’s an undeniable chill in the air during the winter season, it helps to know you can drive right through these light displays in Montana – all while staying warm in your car.

ZooLights has become the holiday tradition that everyone in Billings (and beyond) looks forward to each year.

ZooMontana Facebook ZooMontana hosts the display, which typically lasts through the entire month of December.

This year, the event officially kicks off on December 1, although zoo members can attend a sneak preview the night before at 6 p.m.

ZooMontana Facebook Zoo members also receive $2 off admission.

Instead of walking through the zoo and freezing, ZooLights guests are invited to drive through the zoo and check out the creative displays.

ZooMontana Facebook And while you cruise through, make sure to listen to the ZooRadio, which will be playing all of the holiday classics.

The cost of this fun family experience is just $10 per car, $15 per van, or $20 per bus.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo / Flickr Tickets can be purchased in advance on the zoo’s website.

If you want to see this magnificent display by wagon, come on December 6.

oddharmonic / Flickr There will be two wagons that seat about 16 people and are pulled by a team of working draft horses. Bring a group big enough to fill a wagon or just climb aboard with some other guests.

Depending on when you go, you may even be able to visit with Santa after ZooLights.

ZooMontana Facebook Santa makes a few appearances, and you’ll be able to visit with him for free.

Want to know more about the Montana zoo lights? For more information on this exciting holiday event, check out the ZooMontana website.

ZooMontana Facebook

ZooMontana hosts the display, which typically lasts through the entire month of December.

Zoo members also receive $2 off admission.

And while you cruise through, make sure to listen to the ZooRadio, which will be playing all of the holiday classics.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo / Flickr

Tickets can be purchased in advance on the zoo’s website.

oddharmonic / Flickr

There will be two wagons that seat about 16 people and are pulled by a team of working draft horses. Bring a group big enough to fill a wagon or just climb aboard with some other guests.

Santa makes a few appearances, and you’ll be able to visit with him for free.

So, did you know about this holiday event? Ever attended? Know of any other can’t-miss light displays in Montana? If so, tell us!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: ZooMontana, 2100 Shiloh Rd, Billings, MT 59106, USA