The annual Zoo Lights celebration opened to the public this week. 

Take a walk through the zoo after hours and gape at thousands of twinkling lights and lighted animal displays.

There's snow, live music, hot chocolate and treats. Carousal rides are also available for an additional fee. 

The celebration sticks around until Dec. 23 with appearances by none other than Santa. Encore Nights will run after Christmas, from Dec. 26 to Dec. 30, though Santa won't be in attendance as "he will have returned to the North Pole," the zoo says.