Reindeer at the ready

Local air traffic controllers must have gotten in a little practice for Santa’s big flight when the Chattanooga Zoo brought in a couple of reindeer for Holiday Lights at the Zoo last weekend.

The fun continues again this weekend with the final Holiday Lights, which sees the zoo transformed into a winter wonderland.

Activities include watching animals open their gifts, cookie decorating, ornament crafts and candy cane relay games, but the big draw, of course, is Santa and the reindeer. Visitors will be able to see and interact with the reindeer and chat with zookeepers to find out all the facts and myths about the animals.

“The magical winter wonderland that the zoo is transformed into has continuously provided our staff, animals and zoo visitors countless memories to last a lifetime,” says Dardenelle Long, CEO and president.

Hours are 5: 30- 8 p. m. Friday through Sunday, Dec. 9-11.

Most activities are included in regular admission: $ 9.95 adults, $ 7.95 seniors 65+, $6.95 children 3-12 ( half price for members).

Tickets may be purchased online at www. chattzoo.org/events/ holiday-lights.

Meanwhile, The Hilltop Christmas boasts reindeer residents year-round at its Christmas park, which is opening this weekend, Dec. 9-10 (delayed from last weekend’s originally scheduled opening).

The park includes a sleigh/ hay ride through thousands of Christmas lights to Santa’s workshop, where families may pose for photos with Santa and shop for gifts and souvenirs. Snow machines, Christmas movies and seasonal music add to the festive atmosphere.

The Hilltop Christmas will be open 6: 30- 10: 30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 17, plus some extra days closer to Christmas: Sunday, Dec. 18 and Wednesday through Friday, Dec. 21-23. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for kids under 10, free for infants 3 and younger. Some activities, such as cookie decorating, have an additional fee.

For more information, visit www.thehilltopchrist mas.com.