In some areas, lights shine 50 percent brighter in December.

This Friday, December 3, the National Zoo kicks off its annual Zoo Lights, which fills the Zoo’s exhibits with holiday lights and decorations. As a holiday gift to the city, admission to the event is free (although parking is $8 for FONZ members and $15 for nonmembers). The lights come on between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Friday through Sunday until December 12, and daily from December 17-January 1 (except December 24, 25, and 31)….