Smoky Night Lights will return to Zoo Knoxville this spring, reopening on Friday, March 20, and welcoming guests back to the popular 360-degree nighttime show after storm damage temporarily halted the experience in December.
A powerful windstorm just before Christmas 2025 caused significant damage when a large tree fell onto the Timber Loop boardwalk, damaging part of the structure used for Smoky Night Lights. Out of an abundance of caution, and with guest safety as the top priority, the zoo closed the event while the damage was assessed.
“Over the last several months, our team has worked incredibly hard to repair the boardwalk, reinstall the show, and bring this experience back for the community,” said Bill Street, President and CEO of Zoo Knoxville. “We’re excited to give guests another chance to experience Smoky Night Lights this season.”
Smoky Night Lights is a 360-degree immersive light-and-music experience inspired by the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. The show surrounds guests with synchronized lighting, animation, and music that celebrates the Smokies.
The experience offers a unique evening outing for families and visitors while supporting Zoo Knoxville’s mission of wildlife conservation, education, and animal care.
A limited number of event nights and special reduced-price tickets will be available. Guests can find the full schedule, event details, and purchase tickets at zooknoxville.org.
Zoo Knoxville’s mission is to deliver dynamic guest experiences while inspiring action to save wildlife and wild places. For more information on Zoo Knoxville’s commitment to wildlife conservation, events, membership, and planning your visit, go here.
Located at 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr.,37914, Zoo Knoxville is open every day 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
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