It’s the most magical time of the year at San Francisco Zoo & Gardens! Create new memories for the entire family  and experience the wonder of the holiday season during our new holiday daytime event,  Joy at SF Zoo weekends November 30 through December 29. Journey down Candy Cane Lane for a ride on the historic Carousel at colorful Poinsettia Plaza. Can reindeer really fly? Find out at the Flying Reindeer Academy to see live reindeer and learn fun facts about Santa’s prized helpers. Spend time at the whimsical Sugar Plum Fairy Garden which is decked out for sprites of all sizes and  don’t forget to stop by Peppermint Plaza for a toasty beverage at the special Blitzen’s Bar before making your way to Tinsel Town to meet Santa! You’ll want to take a ride on Little Puffer Express, and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for our animals who will receive special holiday treats throughout December.

Tinsel Town
The Pachyderm Building is transformed into a winter wonderland!
Meet Santa and tell him what is on your wish list. Have your cameras ready to capture this magical moment!

The North Pole

Poinsettia Plaza - Feel like a kid again and take a ride on your favorite, spectacularly carved wooden animal on the historic Dentzel Carousel 

Meet our visiting reindeer and learn fun facts about these majestic creatures! Daily November 23-January 1, 2020

To add a little fantasy to your zoo visit, catch a glimpse of the Sugar Plum Fairy Garden

Explore our state-of-the art playground with 3 distinct bio-regions: a River Play Area, a Polar Zone, and a Banyan tree climbing structure

Peppermint Plaza
Located at the Lemur Café
Choose from the list of Naughty or Nice drinks at Blitzen’s Bar
Enjoy strolling carolers singing your favorite holiday songs
Decorate holiday cookies at Mrs. Claus’ Cookie Kitchen from 10 am – 3 pm

Little Puffer Express
Hop aboard the Little Puffer Express for a magical ride around Bear Country