Last Summer Of San Diego Zoo's Nighttime Zoo Nears End

SAN DIEGO, CA — Visitors have one week left to experience San Diego Zoo's Nighttime Zoo before the longtime summer tradition comes to an end for good.

The annual after-hours event, which has been a summer staple for more than 25 years, concludes Sunday, Aug. 9. This will be the final year of Nighttime Zoo because the zoo plans to introduce a new seasonal event in 2027.

"This is the last year of Nighttime Zoo because we will be introducing a new event next summer," zoo spokesperson Claire Sweeney told Patch. "However, we do not have any details to share at this time regarding the plans for next year."

San Diego Zoo remains open until 8 p.m. during Nighttime Zoo, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the grounds later into the evening while enjoying live entertainment and special wildlife experiences. Activities begin daily at 3:30 p.m.

This year's lineup includes trampoline performances, Tanzanian acrobats, educational presentations by Dr. Zoolittle and the "Jambo Dunia!" show, featuring live music, dancers, acrobats and wildlife puppets celebrating Africa's savannas.

Admission to Nighttime Zoo is included with regular zoo admission and membership.

Nighttime Zoo runs through Sunday. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with Nighttime Zoo entertainment beginning at 3:30 p.m.