To kick-start the holidays, the Los Angeles Zoo has been transformed into a Christmas Winter Wonderland, with lights illuminating the entire menagerie.

The night starts off with LED lights greeting visitors with “Happy Holidays” and a tree filled with disco balls with reflecting lights. The walking event allows attendees to stroll through the zoo and view the luminous extravaganza. After the 60-to 90-minute hike, the last light show is a tunnel of lights and a miniature set depicting L.A.

Many areas of the Zoo are decorated into a magical Christmas wonderland populated by glowing animal-shaped lights. Onlookers are able to view real reindeer, visit with Santa on select dates and enjoy holiday treats. The event is located away from the animals, except for the reindeer.

The inspiration came from Los Angeles City Councilmember Tom LaBonge, 4th District, who wanted to partner with the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association to provide Angelenos with a holiday experience to replace the L.A. DWP festival of lights, which ended its run at Griffith Park in 2008.

The event runs through the end of the month, except Dec. 24 and Dec. 25, and is open from 6 to 10 p.m.

Admission is $13 for adults, $11 for children aged to 2 to 12 years old and kids under 2 are free. Admission is separate from daytime general zoo admission.