Hailey
Holiday Magic Shines At Holidaze: Even though the chilly wind made the evening feel very cold, the holiday spirit stayed warm and bright at this year’s Holidaze at the Zoo event. Families came bundled in jackets, gloves, and scarves to enjoy one of Emporia’s most-loved holiday traditions.
The celebration, hosted by the Emporia Police Benefit Association, David Traylor Zoo, and Hetlinger Developmental Services, once again proved that cold weather cannot stop a joyful community from coming together.
With colourful lights, warm drinks, cheerful music, and happy families everywhere, the event created a perfect start to the holiday season.
What Is Holidaze at the Zoo?
Holidaze at the Zoo is an annual winter celebration that brings families and community members together. The main aim is to create a fun and festive atmosphere and also support local families through the Toy Drive.
Visitors enjoy holiday lights, music, treats, and a variety of activities for all ages. Every year, the event grows bigger because people love spending time together during the holiday season.
Fun Activities for All Ages
The event offered many enjoyable attractions, making it easy for everyone to find something they liked.
Live Music Performances
Students from Emporia Middle School and Emporia High School performed beautiful holiday music. Their performances added warmth to the cold evening. Many visitors praised their talent, including Cheryl Davis of Emporia, who said the music was a wonderful start to the season.
Festive Food and Drinks
Hot chocolate, snacks, and small treats were available throughout the event. These warm drinks helped families stay comfortable while walking around the zoo.
Photos With Santa Claus
One of the most exciting activities for children was meeting Santa Claus. Kids lined up happily to take pictures while parents captured sweet holiday memories.
Holiday Light Walk
The zoo was decorated with bright holiday lights everywhere. The lights reflected on the pond, making the whole area look magical. Christmas carols played softly in the background, adding to the calm and joyful feeling.
Community Togetherness
Even though the temperature was low, families filled the zoo pathways. People walked around smiling, enjoying the music, lights, and holiday excitement.
Events like Holidaze at the Zoo show how strong and connected the community is. When people come together to celebrate, the cold weather does not matter.
Event Highlights
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Music Performances | By Emporia Middle School and Emporia High School |
| Hot Chocolate & Snacks | Served throughout the event |
| Photos With Santa | Open to families and children |
| Holiday Light Walk | Bright lights decorated around the zoo grounds |
| Toy Drive | Donations collected for community families |
Holidaze at the Zoo proved once again that the true warmth of the holiday season comes from people, not the weather. With shimmering lights, joyful music, warm drinks, and a strong spirit of community, the event created a memorable experience for families.
Even with freezing winds, everyone enjoyed celebrating together. Events like these remind us that the holiday season is about sharing happiness, supporting others, and spending time with loved ones. The cold may last for a night, but the joy of coming together stays much longer.