By Charly SHELTON

As night falls over the Los Angeles Zoo, a different kind of magic comes alive with the event LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow. Although the zoo’s diurnal animals are asleep while the event is going on, the darkened paths are illuminated by an array of spectacular light sculptures bringing a nocturnal wonderland to life.

The absence of live animals might be felt by some; however, the event offers a unique experience that compensates with its own charm. The giant light sculptures that represent the animals offer a whimsical alternative, bringing different biomes to life in new and unique ways. These radiant figures stand as glowing sentinels in the night, a testament to the zoo’s dedication to both wildlife and artistry.

Though the real animals may be nestled in their habitats snoring away, the event is a reminder of the zoo’s commitment to conservation and education. Each glowing sculpture not only delights but also educates, shedding light on the importance of these creatures and their roles in our world.

This event is particularly enchanting for children. Watching young ones, like my 3-year-old son, marvel at the light displays and learn the names of each animal as they move along is a heartwarming sight. Granted, once the kids found the light panel play area near the back of the desert trail they swarmed it like the buzzards they just learned about and it became a free-for-all of screaming and running. But for a few brief shining moments, it was pure magic.

The highlight of the event, besides the light panels, was the Winter Wildlands. This section of the walk was different from the rest of the event in that it wasn’t trying to showcase animals in the way they really look, but more of an artistic take on the theme. Each animal, plant, snowman and Christmas tree was iridescent and constantly shifting its glow pattern. This short segment of the walk was by far the most beautiful and unique, and the place that begged the most pictures being taken.

LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow is a unique celebration of wildlife, creativity and family fun. It’s an opportunity to see the zoo in a new light, literally and figuratively, and to appreciate the beauty of nature in all its forms, whether awake or asleep. And also, light panels.

LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow runs select nights now through Jan. 7, 2024. For more information and for tickets, visit LAzoo.org.