Featuring a brand new layout, the Denver Zoo Lights 22nd annual celebration,
running nightly November 30, 2012-January 2, 2013, from 5:30-9 p.m.,
will celebrate cultural traditions, introduce a special train ride and
illuminate the zoo's newest exhibit, Toyota Elephant Passage, with
lanterns.
Denver Zoo will be transformed to a wild winter wonderland
as guests wander under the canopy of lights throughout themed regions at
this year's Zoo Lights. Families can journey to the North Pole region
to visit with Santa, enjoy tasty treats at Ms. Claus' Sweet Shop and
take a spin on the carousel. In this region folks can also take Denver
Zoo's historic train ride, revamped this year with a special theme.
Also new this year is the Festival of Lanterns illuminating
Denver Zoo's new award-winning exhibit Toyota Elephant Passage. More
than 200 Asian lanterns of various shapes, colors and sizes will shine
above the exhibit's walkways with LED light, while guests can get warm
and see elephants, fishing cats and small-clawed otters in the indoor
buildings.
At the Sea of Lights, light sculpture displays of
seahorses, whales and a gigantic octopus swim throughout this wintery
wonderland as waves of holiday lights crash upon the shore.
Also new this year, the Celebration! Pavilion will
celebrate cultural traditions from around the world through dance, music
and storytelling every evening of the event. Entertainment will include
African storytellers and mariachi bands.
The holiday tradition is made complete with 40
brilliantly-illuminated acres of lights, featuring more than 150
animated animal sculptures that swing through trees, jump across lawns,
hide in bushes and appear in places where they're least expected.
Numerous Denver Zoo animals also can be seen throughout the experience
including polar bears, sea lions, arctic foxes, Komodo dragons,
giraffes, hippos and rhinos. Penguins can also be seen at a nightly
demonstration.
Festivities also will include live animal demonstrations,
carolers, instrumental groups, ice carvers, delicious holiday treats at
warming stations throughout the zoo and the ever-popular Zoo Year's Eve
party.