Photo courtesy of The Daily Herald

This winter, Cosley Zoo will become a winter wonderland for the masses. At the Festival of Lights and Tree Sales, there will be 20,000 twinkling lights with displays shaped like farm animals that the zoo houses itself, including animals like birds, reindeers and insects. From 9 a.m. till 9 p.m., now through the end of December, the zoo will be free to visitors.

The zoo will also be offering a variety of items to buy. There are a variety of types of live Christmas trees to purchase, almost every type you could imagine, including pines, firs and spruces, costing $45/tree. Along with this, there will be holiday themed treats like hot chocolate and holiday gifts. For children, there is a “Santa’s Craft Corner,” where children can create their own holiday crafts, including ornaments and take a picture with Santa for $3 . This is the perfect opportunity to get your Christmas tree, holiday presents and still have a fun, family filled day all at once.

Not only is this an opportunity for families everywhere to enjoy the holidays, but the event is for a great cause. Although it is free, visitors are encouraged to make donations, and proceeds of tree sales and other gifts go to the zoo. These proceeds will benefit its animals, educational programs and exhibit development.

“It’s a great event for families everywhere,” said Annie Wilson, an annual zoo-goer.

As a whole, this event is a family friendly opportunity. This will be an event to not only help support your local zoo, but a fantastic opportunity for families to get in the holiday spirit at Cosley zoo.