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July 31st
Friday Night Lights at the Zoo

There are future dates for this event.

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Details

Experience Wilderness Trails Zoo like never before during Friday Night Lights at the Zoo, a unique 21+ after-hours fundraising series held on select Friday evenings from July through October. Stroll the illuminated zoo after dark while enjoying catered food, an open bar, live music, exclusive animal experiences, and our Wild Experiences Auction in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere unlike anything else in Michigan.

Every Friday Night Lights event offers guests the opportunity to experience the zoo in a completely different way while supporting the nonprofit's mission. Proceeds from the 2026 series will help fund the expansion and modernization of the zoo's lion habitat, creating a larger, more natural environment with new enrichment opportunities that enhance the lions' quality of life.

Whether you're planning a unique date night, an evening with friends, or simply looking for an unforgettable summer experience, Friday Night Lights combines entertainment, great food, and meaningful conservation in one memorable event.

Event Schedule
Doors open at 7:00 PM
Enjoy food, drinks, live music, animal experiences, and explore the zoo at your own pace throughout the evening.
Event concludes at 11:00 PM

Buy 5, Get the 6th Free
Attend the first five Friday Night Lights events and receive complimentary admission to the sixth and final event of the season on October 9, 2026.

Good to Know
Free parking is available on-site.
The zoo offers accessible pathways throughout much of the event area.
Guests must be 21 years of age or older with a valid photo ID.
Advance ticket purchase is required. Tickets will not be available at the gate.
In the event of severe weather, the event will be postponed to the designated rain date (the following Friday), and all purchased tickets will automatically transfer to that date.
Tickets are non-refundable and are valid only for the date purchased or its designated rain date. Tickets may not be transferred to another guest or another event date.

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Upcoming Dates For This Event

  • Friday, July 31
  • Friday, August 14
  • Friday, August 28
  • Friday, September 11
  • Friday, September 25
  • Friday, October 9