Community effort brings the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary to life ahead of December debut
The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary is glowing with early signs of the holiday season thanks to the efforts of more than 100 community volunteers who spent the weekend transforming the beloved local attraction into a winter wonderland for the upcoming Wild Nights & Holiday Lights celebration.
Volunteers representing the National Charity League, Rotary Club of Folsom, Folsom High Interact, Folsom High UNICEF, and Vista del Lago Leo Club joined dozens of residents for the city’s Annual Community Decorating Day.
Together, they strung lights, decorated trees, and added festive touches throughout the sanctuary, setting the stage for what has become one of Folsom’s most cherished holiday traditions.
Now in its 15th year, Wild Nights & Holiday Lights will illuminate the zoo sanctuary for twelve nights this December, running December 5–7, 11–14, and 18–22 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. each evening. Guests will stroll through a dazzling display of holiday lights and seasonal décor while enjoying performances from the Northern California Children’s Chorus, Legacy Community Choir, Valley Ukulele, Rotary Club Folsom, and Folsom Voices. The Mini Donut Shack will also return as the event’s featured food vendor.
Families can explore the Enchanted Forest of decorated trees, meet the zoo’s beloved mascot Santa Paws, and even catch a glimpse of animals who are more active at night. Zoo docents will be on hand to share animal facts, and the Folsom Valley Railway will offer festive train rides through the glowing park.
Admission is $12.99 per person and free for children under 2. Train rides are $7 per person, with free rides for children under 2. Tickets must be purchased in advance online at tickets.eventhub.net/e/wild-nights-and-holiday-lights-2025, as none will be sold at the gate.
Event proceeds directly benefit the animals and programs of the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary.
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