Cheers! 'BrewLights' Is Back at the National Zoo, December 12

Stay merry with dozens of microbreweries to sample under the bright Zoo Lights displays.

Zoo Lights, the wildly-popular wintertime event, is getting a boozy twist on December 12 with "BrewLights"! For one night, the National Zoo will transform into a wintry beer garden for adults to sip and mingle among dozens of microbreweries. Sorry kids—this one is for the grown-ups!

WHEN: Thursday, December 12, 2019 | 6–9 p.m.
WHERE: Smithsonian National Zoo | 3001 Connecticut Avenue, NW | Washington, DC
TICKETS: $55-$65 | Purchase HERE

zoo lights

From 6 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy unlimited sips from over 40 craft breweries and tasty snacks to go with them. Savor samples from Atlas Brew Works, Union Craft Brewing, and Denizens Brewing Co. Nine designated spots around the zoo cover the night's festivities, so hop from the Small Mammal House to the Gorilla Grove and everywhere in between for optimal sampling pleasure!

Get in the holiday spirit with live music performances ranging from Christmas carols to DJ sets, and a make-your-own smores station is bound to delight. Add in the festive light displays, and you've got a holiday experience for the books!

Tickets are $55 for FONZ members and $65 for non-members; the price will increase by $5 if purchased at the door. All tickets come equipped with a nifty drinking glass, access to the zoo's grounds and, of course, unlimited samples. Your support will benefit the wonderful work the National Zoo does year-round to maintain and protect all species!

zoo lights

Here are a few things to know:

This event is 21+ only. Guests must bring a valid photo ID in order to attend.
Children are not permitted.
Zoo parking is $25 per car, but we recommend utilizing public transit as the event's Designated Driver tickets have sold out. The Metro Red Line will take you to the Woodley-Park stop.

For the full list of participating breweries, check out the event page here.

**All photos courtesy of the Smithsonian National Zoo

Will you be sipping away at "BrewLights?" Have you gone before? Share your memories with us in the comments!