COVER STORY: An INSIDE LOOK at

CHRISTMAS IN THE WILD at ZooTampa

by ZooTampa and Laura Byrne

Christmas in the Wild is back bigger and BRIGHTER than ever this year with six new illuminated zones of twinkling lights! This is one of our favorite events to celebrate the holidays in Tampa Bay because it truly has something for everyone, whether it is a sweet photo with Santa for the kiddos or delicious cocktails and treats for the foodies in the family. And of course, there are the animals! You can expect NEW additions this year and returning favorites, so let’s get to it to help you map out your visit.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

You’ll want to book your reservation to secure your spot, even if you are a Zoo member. Members pay $5 per ticket, which you will get back in a voucher to spend at the Zoo. Regular admission tickets are $29.95. We encourage you to book your reservation as soon as you know you want to go—every night of the Zoo’s Halloween event, Creatures of the Night, sold out this year. We anticipate a similar demand for Christmas in the Wild. You can purchase at zootampa.org.

WHAT’S NEW

Lights, lights and more lights: ZooTampa is illuminated with dazzling lights and dynamic holiday displays. The Forest of Fantasy: Watch the Zoo transform at sunset when the warm glow of twinkling lights fills the night sky. Two brand new light shows cross the entire manatee circle. Shows are every 15 minutes. Picture perfect spots: Pose for Instagram-worthy photos in front of the many photo-op areas, like the Christmas trees soaring over 30 feet high with thousands of dancing lights and festive ornaments. Ice Cavern: The Africa tunnel transforms into a winter wonderland this holiday season. Have your camera ready to remember the moment you step inside the cavern surrounded by glowing lights! Wallaroo Wrap Party: Dance with Santa's elves who've gathered to celebrate the season after working hard making presents for everyone. While in Wallaroo, join in some reindeer games with Randolph the Reindeer. Ticky Tacky Christmas: See Roaring Springs transformed into Tacky Christmas, where holiday decorations get silly. Animal Giving Tree: Located next to the Binturong habitat, get into the holiday spirit and give gifts to the animals that call ZooTampa home. Scan a QR code to give the gift that keeps on giving.

RETURNING FAVORITES

Candy Cane Carousel: All aboard the Candy Cane Carousel! Embark on an unforgettable ride with red and white lights sprinkled all around the carousel for a candy cane celebration. Cookie Decorating with Mrs. Claus: Every night you will be able to decorate cookies at Mrs. Claus' shop. Visit Santa at the Twinkle Town marketplace: Come tell Santa what you would like for Christmas and take a photo with him. Kaleidoscope Tunnel returns and moves to Manatee tunnel. Become immersed in the holidays under the sea as the sounds of the ocean fill the pathways. Caribbean Christmas: Key West will transport you to a Caribbean Christmas with a hilarious Christmas improv show, "Hymn-Prov". Felices Dias Festivos: Deck the halls with cheerful Latino carolers singing your favorite Christmas carols in English and Spanish. Join in and sing along with these spectacular voices.

FESTIVE FOOD AND DRINKS

There will be plenty of festive treats and drinks, just as you’d expect, including some of these NEW additions:

Cranberry, goat cheese, arugula and cadied walnut flatbread

Brownie Truffle Ornaments almost too pretty to eat

Triple Chocolate Mousse Snowglobe

Red and green veggies make for a perfect pizza wreath

CHRISTMAS IN THE WILD DATES:

Nov. 26-27, Dec. 3-4, 10-11 and 17-23 from 4-10 p.m. Dec. 26-30 from 4-9 p.m.