Welcome to Zoo Lights Volunteering!
Zoo Lights, taking place on select days in November and December, 4:30-8PM, is everyone's chance to walk the zoo after hours among millions of beautiful lights in a variety of displays. Come join us as we light up the night and bring holiday magic to our community.
Video by: Melissa Seibert (https://www.meljenfilms.com/)
All Zoo Lights volunteer roles are outdoors. Temperatures during this time of year can range anywhere from the 30's down to negative temperatures. Lights are set up throughout the zoo and close to volunteer locations. Roles require being able to maneuver in an array of dark and light spaces. Christmas music from the local radio station plays throughout the night. Guests can be in the thousands on busy nights. Volunteer shifts run 3.5-4hrs.
*If you are interested in volunteering, but are highly sensitive to light, sound and/or crowds, we suggest volunteering on December 10th. During this time we turn off the radios for our Sensory Friendly night.
- Free general admission tickets for each night of Zoo Lights you work (i.e. work three nights, get three tickets)
- Free hot chocolate during your shift
- Access to the bi-weekly volunteer update - with animal news, volunteer opportunities & more!
- 30% Discount at the HVZ Gift Shop during Zoo Lights
- 40% Discount at the HVZ Glacier Grille during Zoo Lights
- Brew Lights (Saturday, November 14th)
A 21+ evening of music, drinks, and after hours fun at Henry Vilas Zoo! Guests enjoy unlimited drink samples from local and regional breweries and wineries while enjoying most of the fun of Zoo Lights. Tickets include carousel rides, a sampling glass and unlimited samples, and additional activities like LED Games and a photobooth. Volunteers must be 21+ to work this event. Volunteers with early shifts have the opportunity to attend the event free of charge once their shift has completed for the evening.
- Dream Lights (Wednesday, December 9th)
A night of Zoo Lights magic for those members of our community currently immunocompromised and going through long-term care. This special annual event hosts less than 500 guests, and is an intimate night for those who might not otherwise be able to come on a busy Zoo Lights night. This event is reserved for current HVZ volunteers who have completed an ongoing role for the 2026 season. - Henry's Holiday PJ Party (Sunday, December 6th)
A family friendly version of Zoo Lights that shifts the Zoo Lights schedule to an earlier time-frame to accommodate our littles. Guests will enjoy Sleepy Storytime with Henry the Lion and child-sized concessions options, in addition to free carousel rides throughout the evening. This night is excellent for those who really enjoy littles! - Sensory Night (Sunday, December 13)
This night creates a lower sensory experience for all guests! Guests can enjoy a quiet night of lights with no additional music in the park or in the carousel.
We do everything we can to ensure Zoo Lights stays open each night. However, we may call off volunteers should we be facing truly inclement weather (snow/ice storms) or dangerously low temperatures. We will text &/or call no later than 1PM the night of if we are canceling.
That being said, this is an outside opportunity. Volunteers should plan on showing off their slick Wisconsin layering skills and come dressed for functionality over fashion. Shorts, Crocs and hoodies should come with, respectively, thick leggings, thick socks and a winter jacket. We love you, but we're looking at you Gen Z-ers.
Click on the link above to create a MyImpact volunteer account and get access to all HVZ opportunities. Your MyImpact account will allow you to:
- Log in any time to explore and sign up for volunteer opportunities not otherwise available (like Zoo Lights!)
- Receive our bi-weekly volunteer update - with information on volunteer opportunities, animal news and HVZ events.
- Get early access to applications for ongoing volunteer roles (posted in January-April of every year).
HVZ uses accounts for volunteer coordinating purposes only, and does not publish or share any volunteer information.
Check the role descriptions for specifics.
For New Volunteers:
- If you're between the ages of 12 and 17, then there are some roles that allow you to volunteer with a parent/guardian.
- If you're at least 18 by your first chosen date, you can volunteer on your own
For Current/Returning Volunteers:
- If you're between the ages of 12 and 17, then you will need to volunteer with a parent/guardian
- If you're at least 16, and have completed a weekly, ongoing role with us in 2026, then you may volunteer on your own
- Those 18+ may volunteer on their own for most roles
We love that you want to get your group involved!
Zoo Lights is more set up for individuals and pairs. However, you're welcome to check out our group opportunities here closer to January/February, 2027.
VOLUNTEER ROLES FOR ALL
Role Summary
Brew Lights Photographers will meet at the front of the Zoo at 4PM. They will be in charge of photographing:
- VIP guests gathering & mingling
- Volunteer Tour Captains doing their work
- Behind-the-scenes tours
- Keeper & participant interactions
- " " with animals
- Guests smiling, laughing and enjoying themselves at Brew Lights
Requirements
- If brand new: Must be able to show 3-5 examples of your work before being confirmed in this role
- Must have your own DSLR camera & able to upload photos to a Google drive to share after the event
- Must be comfortable photographing in low light situations with minimal equipment in possibly small areas. Flash will most likely not be allowed or helpful.
- Able to take a mix of posed and candid shots.
- Must be able to provide photos within 2-3 days post event
- Able to remember that getting to join a behind-the-scenes is cool, but that you are there to focus on your volunteer role.
- Confident but communicative - unafraid to get close to subjects, ask about photographing when needed, etc.
Volunteering for All
You will be working with HVZ animal care staff throughout the shift. This role traverses over a variety of surfaces and in and out of animal areas. It requires that the volunteer be able to physically traverse the space. It also requires that the volunteer be able to focus on their role and let guests do the actual encounter and question asking unless prompted by animal care staff. This is not a suitable role for those who just want a free animal encounter. It is for this reason that we don't allow volunteers to choose which VIP tour they work.
Role Summary
We light up the Zoo, but our Greeters light up our guests' faces! Greeters make sure guests feel welcome when they get to the gate and know where to go afterwards.
Check entry tickets. Say hello to families in line. Help answer questions and direct guests as necessary.
A lot can go on at the gates, but you'll be well-supported in this role from HVZ staff and our Event Lead volunteers.
Requirements:
- Must be 12-17 with a parent/guardian, OR 18+
- Able to hear and understand a radio (with provided training)
- Able to see in, at times, dim light
- Able to sit/stand for the duration of the 3.5hrs shift
- Excellent verbal communication
- Patient with large groups of people
Training
Online Zoo Lights training (10-15min)
Volunteering for All
This role takes place at the Front Gate that faces Drake/Randall OR the Bridge Gate that faces Lake Wingra. A HVZ staff member will be there with you to start before starting their rounds. This role will not always have a staff member physically there, but will be supported through regular visits and by radio. In addition, this role is right next to our Gift Shop - which provides another valuable support from our concessions staff partners.
All Zoo Lights volunteer roles are outdoors in areas with flat surfaces. All roles are within a short trip of a bathroom. Temperatures during this time of year can range anywhere from the 30's down to negative temperatures. Lights are set up throughout the zoo and close to volunteer locations. Christmas music from the local radio station plays throughout the night. Guests can be in the thousands on busy nights. This opportunity may not be appropriate for those with sensitivity to light, sound and/or crowds.
Zoo Lights Perks
- Free general admission tickets for each night of Zoo Lights you work (i.e. work three nights, get three tickets)
- Free hot chocolate during your shift
- Access to the bi-weekly volunteer update - with animal news, volunteer opportunities & more!
- 30% Discount at the HVZ Gift Shop during Zoo Lights
- 40% Discount at the HVZ Glacier Grille during Zoo Lights
Weather Policy
We do everything we can to ensure Zoo Lights stays open each night. However, we may call off volunteers should we be facing truly inclement weather (snow/ice storms) or dangerously low temperatures. We will text &/or call no later than 1PM the night of if we are cancelling.
That being said, this is an outside opportunity. Volunteers should plan on showing off their slick Wisconsin layering skills and come dressed for functionality over fashion. Shorts, Crocs and hoodies should come with, respectively, thick leggings, thick socks and a winter jacket. We love you, but we're looking at you, Gen Z-ers.
Role Summary
This year the big guy in red will be taking up residence in our giraffe house to welcome hundreds of kids and families. Santa's Helpers make sure waiting families know which doors to enter. They chat with families waiting in line. And they may occasionally help Santa keep track of time throughout the night.
*You are not required to wear elf ears. But we won't stop you if you do. 😁
Requirements:
- Must be 12-17 with a parent/guardian, OR 18+
- Able to hear and understand a radio (with provided training)
- Able to see in, at times, dim light
- Able to sit/stand for the duration of the 3.5hrs shift
- Excellent verbal communication
- Patient with large groups of people
Training
Online Zoo Lights training (10-15min)
Volunteering for All
HVZ staff are available throughout the event to support volunteers when needed, but will not physically be at the Santa area at all times. You will be working with Santa & Mrs. Claus plus another volunteer. This role requires excellent social skills and comfort with working with guests in close proximity (there will be unwarranted hugging). It does not lend itself well to volunteers who may struggle with social anxieties.
All Zoo Lights volunteer roles are outdoors in areas with flat surfaces. All roles are within a short trip of a bathroom. Temperatures during this time of year can range anywhere from the 30's down to negative temperatures. Lights are set up throughout the zoo and close to volunteer locations. Christmas music from the local radio station plays throughout the night. Guests can be in the thousands on busy nights. This opportunity may not be appropriate for those with sensitivity to light, sound and/or crowds.
ROLES FOR CURRENT VOLUNTEERS ONLY
Role Summary
Brew Lights VIP Tour Captains will meet at the front of the Zoo at 4PM. They will be in charge of gathering their tour groups, walking them to the exhibit areas, and providing a second set of hands to help during the tour. Duties include:
- Gathering guests & chatting with them before the tour
- Communicating with animal care staff by radio
- Opening/closing/holding doors
- Providing assistance in case of an emergency
- Navigating a guest out should they need to leave mid-tour
Requirements
- Must be a current volunteer with HVZ
- Must have completed Radio Training
- Must be fairly comfortable navigating zoo grounds
- Able to see in, at times, dim light
- Able to remember that getting to join a behind-the-scenes is cool, but that you are there to focus on your volunteer role. This means that you should
- Excellent verbal communication - specifically, good at chit-chat, friendly banter, etc.
Volunteering for All
You will be working with HVZ animal care staff throughout the shift. This role traverses over a variety of surfaces and in and out of animal areas. It requires that the volunteer be able to physically traverse the space. It also requires that the volunteer be able to focus on their role and let guests do the actual encounter and question asking unless prompted by animal care staff. This is not a suitable role for those who just want a free animal encounter. It is for this reason that we don't allow volunteers to choose which VIP tour they work.
Role Summary
Carousel volunteers run the carousel and make the kids' nights! Rides are included in the price of the ticket, so now's your chance to challenge the kids to see who can ride it the most times (the record is 32!).
Requirements:
- Must be 18+
- Must have completed HVZ Radio Training though MyImpact
- Must be able to lift at least 20lbs
- Able to focus on one thing at a time
- Able to easily switch between sitting & standing, and to quickly respond in the event of an emergency
- Enjoys working with children and all the challenges they bring
- Enjoys finding wells to help people smile
Training
Online Zoo Lights training (10-15min)
Volunteering for All
HVZ staff are available throughout the event to support volunteers when needed, but will not physically be in the carousel building at all times. All surfaces are even, and accessible by wheelchair. Stools are available for those that need them; however, this role will require the ability to get up and down from a sitting position often to do safety checks before the ride begins. The HVZ carousel during Zoo Lights can be high-sensory area due to the lights, loud music and varying guest numbers, and may not be suitable for those with sensitivities to light and sound.
See Themed/Specialty nights for a description of Dream Lights.
See general Zoo Lights descriptions for details of each role:
- Gate Greeter
- Santa's Helpers
- Carousel
Role Summary
Event Leads are essential to helping us gather, guide and support our volunteers each night of Zoo Lights! They welcome volunteers (new and returning), get volunteers their swag, help walk them to their stations if needed, make hot chocolate runs, and sub in for any volunteers needing a break.
This role works very closely with HVZ staff throughout the night.
Requirements:
- Must be 18+ (16+ with special permission from the HVZ Volunteer Coordinator)
- Must be able to demonstrate excellent radio communication skills - both listening & responding
- Must be very familiar with the layout of the zoo
- Able to be on your feet for the majority of a 4hr shift
- Able to safely speed walk, if needed
- Comfortable in a leadership role
- Excellent communication and people skills
Training
Online Zoo Lights Event Lead Training (15-20min)
Volunteering for All
This role takes place all throughout the zoo. It requires walking on potentially icy surfaces, the ability to see in dim light, and the ability to carry cartons full of hot chocolate. Event Leads will make and take radio calls frequently, and need to be able to hear and respond to calls. This role also requires excellent social skills, and the ability to be understanding and flexible to a point.
Zoo Lights Perks
- Free general admission tickets for each night of Zoo Lights you work (i.e. work three nights, get three tickets)
- Free hot chocolate during your shift
- Access to the bi-weekly volunteer update - with animal news, volunteer opportunities & more!
- 30% Discount at the HVZ Gift Shop during Zoo Lights
- 40% Discount at the HVZ Glacier Grille during Zoo Lights
Weather Policy
We do everything we can to ensure Zoo Lights stays open each night. However, we may call off volunteers should we be facing truly inclement weather (snow/ice storms) or dangerously low temperatures. We will text &/or call no later than 1PM the night of if we are cancelling.
That being said, this is an outside opportunity. Volunteers should plan on showing off their slick Wisconsin layering skills and come dressed for functionality over fashion. Shorts, Crocs and hoodies should come with, respectively, thick leggings, thick socks and a winter jacket. We love you, but we're looking at you, Gen Z-ers.
Role Summary
Henry and Handler lead a story time with littles of all ages at Henry's PJ Party, Sunday, December 6, 4 to 7:30PM). Expect two story times (5:15-5:45 and 6:15-6:45PM) with a packed room full of kids and kids at heart. Henry and Handler choose 1-3 stories that they will practice with ahead of time. They'll have the Polar Party room of the Grille to themselves to then read and react to each story. Stories are followed by photo opportunities and meet & greets with families. There is a 30min break between story times. Total costume time is 60min.
Requirements:
- Must have volunteered as Henry/Handler for the 2026 season, and have an excellent reading voice and/or miming skill
- Must be 18+ (16+ with special permission from the HVZ Volunteer Coordinator)
- Must be very familiar with the layout of the zoo
- Must be able to demonstrate patience and kindness with kids and adults of all ages and backgrounds
Training
In-Person Henry/Handler Training
Volunteering for All
This role takes place indoors. It involves being around a lot of kids (talking at various decibels), speaking in front of others, reacting quickly and cautiously to audience movements/reactions, and being inside a mascot costume that can get very warm (we do have a cooling vest and fan). This role is excellent for those who enjoy the adventure that working with kids can bring. It may not be suitable for those for whom social anxiety is a challenge. This role CAN be done in a wheelchair.
Zoo Lights Perks
- Free general admission tickets for each night of Zoo Lights you work (i.e. work three nights, get three tickets)
- Free hot chocolate during your shift
- Access to the bi-weekly volunteer update - with animal news, volunteer opportunities & more!
- 30% Discount at the HVZ Gift Shop during Zoo Lights
- 40% Discount at the HVZ Glacier Grille during Zoo Lights
Weather Policy
We do everything we can to ensure Zoo Lights stays open each night. However, we may call off volunteers should we be facing truly inclement weather (snow/ice storms) or dangerously low temperatures. We will text &/or call no later than 1PM the night of if we are cancelling.
"I had so much fun! It was a joy to see the eyes of children when they met Santa. And everyone was so helpful and supportive. I can't wait for next year!"
Jan Anderson - Incredible Zoo Lights Volunteer
