7 Must-Know Secrets About Let It Glow Paramus NJ: The 2025 Holiday Lantern Spectacular
The "Let It Glow!" Holiday Lantern Spectacular is returning to Paramus, New Jersey, for the 2025-2026 winter season, transforming the Bergen County Zoo into a dazzling, walk-through wonderland of lights and color. This year’s event, which runs from November 6, 2025, through January 11, 2026, promises to be the biggest and brightest yet, featuring an entirely new collection of illuminated scenes that make it a premier destination for holiday cheer in North Jersey.
The event is a must-visit for families, couples, and light enthusiasts looking for a unique, immersive experience that goes beyond traditional Christmas lights. Located within the picturesque Van Saun County Park, the spectacular offers a rare chance to see the zoo grounds after dark, completely reimagined with larger-than-life lanterns.
Event Profile: Let It Glow! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular 2025-2026
This section provides the essential, up-to-date information you need to plan your visit to the Bergen County Zoo's signature holiday event.
- Event Name: Let It Glow! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
- Location: Bergen County Zoo at Van Saun County Park
- Address: 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652
- 2025-2026 Dates: Thursday, November 6, 2025, through Sunday, January 11, 2026
- Operating Hours:
- Thursdays & Sundays: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Fridays & Saturdays: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Attraction Type: Walk-through, outdoor lantern display and light show.
- Primary Attraction: Over 40 all-new, larger-than-life illuminated lantern scenes.
- Special Inclusion: The Bergen County Zoo Train Ride is included with every ticket purchase.
- Purpose: The event serves as a critical fundraiser for the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo.
The 40+ All-New Lantern Scenes & Immersive Walk-Through Experience
What sets "Let It Glow" apart from other New Jersey holiday light shows is its unique presentation as a Chinese-style lantern festival adapted for a zoo environment. This is not just strings of lights; it is a collection of massive, hand-crafted sculptures illuminated from within.
A Fresh Spectacle for the 2025 Season
For the 2025-2026 season, organizers have announced a commitment to a completely fresh experience, featuring over 40 NEW scenes of dazzling, larger-than-life animal-themed lanterns. This means that even if you have visited the Bergen County Zoo's spectacular in previous years, this year will offer a brand-new, unique journey. The zoo's pathways are transformed into a glowing trail, showcasing both real and imagined animals from around the world, all rendered in breathtaking, vibrant silk and steel.
The Included Train Ride: A Unique Vantage Point
One of the most popular features of the "Let It Glow" experience is the inclusion of the Bergen County Zoo Train Ride with the price of admission. The train offers a different, relaxing perspective of the illuminated displays, allowing guests to take a break from walking while still enjoying the full scope of the lantern spectacular. This combined walk-and-ride experience ensures you see the displays from every angle, maximizing the value of your visit.
The entire walk-through experience is designed to be family-friendly, moving at a comfortable pace that is suitable for all ages. The path is well-maintained, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring that everyone in the family can enjoy the magic of the holiday lanterns.
Essential Tips for Planning Your Visit to Paramus, NJ
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to this premier North Jersey holiday destination, here are the critical details regarding tickets, parking, and other attractions.
1. Ticket Information and Purchase Strategy
While specific 2025 ticket prices are dynamic and best confirmed on the official Eventbrite or Bergen County Zoo websites closer to the opening date, it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance. "Let It Glow" is one of the most anticipated holiday events in New Jersey, and prime weekend slots often sell out quickly. Buying online guarantees your entry and allows you to secure your preferred time slot, minimizing wait times at the gate.
Value Tip: Remember that your ticket price is not just for the light show; it is an all-inclusive price that covers the walk-through lantern spectacular *and* the train ride. Furthermore, a portion of the proceeds supports the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo, which aids the zoo's conservation and education efforts.
2. The Van Saun County Park Winter Wonderland Connection
Your visit to "Let It Glow" can be part of a larger, full-day experience at Van Saun County Park. The park is home to Bergen County's "Winter Wonderland," which typically opens later in November (around November 28th) and offers additional attractions. While "Let It Glow" is a separate, ticketed event, the proximity means you can combine an evening at the lantern spectacular with other winter activities in the area, solidifying Paramus as a top family destination for the holidays.
3. On-Site Amenities and Extra Activities
To enhance the festive atmosphere, the event offers several on-site amenities. You can purchase S'mores kits at the Gift Shop to roast over designated fire pits, adding a classic winter treat to your evening. On select dates, the Bergen County Zoo hosts special events like Christmas Caroling, which adds a traditional holiday soundscape to the visual spectacle of the glowing lanterns. Check the official Friends of the Bergen County Zoo website for the 2025-2026 schedule of special performances.
Why Let It Glow is a North Jersey Holiday Tradition
The "Let It Glow!" Holiday Lantern Spectacular has quickly established itself as a beloved North Jersey tradition, drawing visitors from across the tri-state area. Its success lies in its unique blend of cultural artistry—the illuminated lanterns—with the familiar, family-friendly setting of the Bergen County Zoo.
The dedication to featuring all-new, larger-than-life scenes each year ensures the event remains fresh and exciting for returning guests. For those seeking a breathtaking, high-quality, and truly memorable holiday experience that is distinct from standard drive-through light displays, the walk-through paths of the Paramus, NJ, zoo offer the perfect illuminated escape.
Whether you are a local resident or planning a holiday trip to the area, mark your calendar for November 6, 2025. The Bergen County Zoo is waiting to light up your winter with a spectacular display of creativity and holiday cheer that is truly unforgettable.
Detail Author:
- Name : Sophia Fay
- Username : schmeler.lurline
- Email : nicklaus.kihn@abbott.com
- Birthdate : 1982-03-26
- Address : 971 Tomas Street Apt. 707 Margueritemouth, FL 00790
- Phone : 847-516-3261
- Company : Gusikowski, Medhurst and Bogisich
- Job : Welder-Fitter
- Bio : Id in minus et vel. Est possimus est facere voluptatem. Quam eius id sint libero nemo. Magni quia atque labore corrupti accusantium ut.
Socials
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@kenneth1086
- username : kenneth1086
- bio : Et facilis explicabo consequatur reiciendis.
- followers : 3207
- following : 2661
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/kfritsch
- username : kfritsch
- bio : Qui ut deserunt quibusdam est magni.
- followers : 355
- following : 1355
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/kenneth_real
- username : kenneth_real
- bio : Nisi aspernatur velit esse ab aliquid quo. Ut est commodi qui nihil reiciendis.
- followers : 6219
- following : 1989
