Potter Park Zoo's Winter Wonderland of Lights Being Turned On

By Billie Harris

Lansing, MI - Potter Park Zoo will shine with holiday fun when the 16th annual Wonderland of Lights kicks off November 28.

Thousands of colorful bulbs will illuminate the zoo and delight visitors as they enjoy festive decorations and favorite activities, including crafts and cookie decorating, face painting, story telling, animal presentations and nightly live music. And of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus will appear every Friday and Saturday evening to talk to the children and hear their wish lists.

Wonderland of Lights will be open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays to Sundays through December 28.

 Families can expect to see their favorite light displays from previous years return as well as some new surprises, including more animal sculptures and more environmentally-friendly LED lighting.

“This event is a community favorite where families can spend time together and enjoy the holiday season in a fun, relaxing way,” Zoo Society Director Diane McNeil said. “So many people look forward each year to seeing all of the new touches we’ve added - we hope to have a display that people will talk about for years to come!”

Admission is $4 for adults; $3 for senior citizens; and $2 for children under 15. Zoo Society members will be admitted for free. Parking is also free to all event attendees.

All proceeds from admissions on opening night, November 28, will be dedicated to the zoo’s Rhino Renovation project. On December 6th, each person who brings in a new, unwrapped toy will be admitted to Wonderland of Lights for free. All toys will be donated to Toys for Tots.

Potter Park Zoo is located at 1301 S. Pennsylvania Ave. within Potter Park along the Red Cedar River in Lansing, Michigan. The zoo is open daily year-round, winter hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (517) 483-4222 or visit www.potterparkzoo.org.