If you’re looking for some winter fun this December, Southwick’s Zoo is the perfect place to check out!
In the summer, Southwick’s never fails to disappoint as the largest zoo in New England. Located in Mendon Massachusetts it covers over 200 acres and acts as home to over 850 animals in naturalistic habitats. They have something for everyone with their Soaring Eagle Zipline, Rainforest Adventure Maze, Skyfari Sky Ride, Woodland Train, petting zoo, deer forest, walk-through parakeet aviary and much more. They also provide many animal encounters such as giraffe feedings, rhino encounters and more recently sloth encounters. Not only is it a great place for a fun weekend activity but they also do birthday parties, corporate outings, and even weddings.
Last winter they added a new tradition to the zoo. They started an event named Winter Wonderland. During this month-long event, visitors can ride the train through the “enchanted forest” to enjoy the multitude of holiday light displays and visit Santa Claus at his house. When walking through the park you might run into some Christmas characters like Frosty the Snowman or even some of Santa’s Elves.
The winter fun does not stop there. Visitors can also go through the Adventure Maze to find Rudy the Reindeer. Due to the cold weather, most of the zoo’s animals have been moved indoors and are off exhibit. However, there are a few animals who like the cold and will stay out for the winter season. The Yaks, Bactrian Camels, Watusi, Muntjak Deer, and Vicuña will all be out (although they have the option to be both indoors or outdoors and will be kept indoors in cases of extreme cold or snow). The deer in the deer forest will also remain outside. You can also visit Santa’s furry friends in the petting zoo or go inside the heated reptile exhibit.
Along with Santa’s house, the zoo will also have two open gift shops and a bakery. The Christmas Cupboard is where you can find a large assortment of ornaments that can be personalized. In the Purple Peacock Gift Shop, you can find everything from toys or stuffed animals to animal statues or decorative tea sets.
This year, Winter Wonderland will also have some special guests. The Cirque de Holiday will be performing in the heated holiday tent. The performance will be about 20 minutes and they’ll have 3 performances each night.
This year the zoo is also looking to give back to the community. Guests who donate a non-perishable food item or a new and unwrapped toy will save $5 on their admission.
This year Winter Wonderland will begin November 29 and will end December 29. It will be open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Start a new tradition and check out Southwick’s Zoo’s Winter Wonderland.