INDIANAPOLIS — The holidays might be winding down, but there are still plenty of festive activities to check out as the new year approaches.
Over at the Indianapolis Zoo, it’s still merry and bright as “Christmas at the Zoo” runs in full swing for the next several days.
“Even though the holidays are over now, the holiday spirit still runs wild here at the Indianapolis Zoo,” said Indianapolis Zoo Public Relations Specialist Cody Mattox. “Even if you’ve been here for multiple Christmases at the Zoo in a row, it still feels like you’re coming here for the very first time.”
Christmas at the Zoo runs every day through Jan. 5, except New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
From glimmering lights to friendly animals, there are plenty of activities and exhibits visitors can check out.
“You can meet a penguin, you can meet our new runner ducks this year, you can decorate cookies in Mrs. Claus’ kitchen,” Mattox said. “You can walk through our mirror maze and get lost in the fun twists and turns there. You can still come and enjoy the lights.”
And that is exactly what many families did Friday afternoon, soaking up every last bit of the joyful season.
“It’s just sweet time with our kids as a family,” said parents Bailey and Grant Goodman. “Look at the lights and see the animals. It’s the holidays. We’re just trying to enjoy the crew. We’re savoring the joy.”
And the holiday spirit still shines bright over at Newfields too.
“All 2 million lights are sparkling bright,” said Jonathan Wright, the Director of the Garden and Fairbanks Parks at Newfields. “And there’s usually less crowds after the holidays, so if you have friends, family and loved ones in town, it’s a perfect time to come out and take in the magic of the season before the lights go off.”
Winterlights runs through Jan. 5. The glistening holiday spectacle is closed on New Year’s Day, however. Newfields is also hosting another special celebration on New Year’s Eve. Visitors can come celebrate during Newfields’ second annual midnight party.
“Come and spend New Year’s Eve here in the extraordinary galleries,” Wright said. You can start your evening in Winterlights, then celebrate and toast in the surreal environment of Salvador Dali in the galleries.”
The New Year’s Eve party is for people that are 21 years of age and older. Tickets can be purchased online.
The last night of Winterlights is on Jan. 5, and guests can bring their dogs for this final evening of celebration.
You can find more holiday festivities over the next several days by clicking here.
