The Gift of Lights, a holiday lights event, will return to the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend starting Nov. 29.
“The Gift of Lights is a great tradition here at the zoo,” said Josh Sisk, Potawatomi Zoo executive director, in a press release. “Along with all the lights, which are amazing every year, you can visit Santa, ride the train, feed the giraffes and try some of our seasonal food options, all while enjoying the holidays with friends and family.”
Santa will be in the River Run Yurt 5 p.m. every night. Elsa will be at the zoo 6 to 8 p.m. Sundays. The Grinch will be making special appearances at the zoo on various nights.
This year, the South Bend Civic Theatre is scheduled to perform on the Dragonfly Deck 6 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21.
Giraffe feeding will take place in the Laidig Giraffe Conservation Center visitor center. The Potawatomi Zoo Express train will run as weather permits.
The Lodge will be open with hot drinks, adult drinks, snacks and a full menu. The Farmhouse Café, run by Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck, will also be open with drinks and snacks. Keim’s Elephant Ears, Randy’s Famous Popcorn and Professor Butterbeer will be at the zoo on select nights during The Gift of Lights.
Some parts of the zoo may be closed after dark and in cold weather for the health and safety of the animals and visitors. The Endangered Species Carousel will not be operating.
The Gift of Lights is 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 5 to 8 p.m. Sundays. The holiday lights event runs Nov. 29 through Dec. 22.
