Wild Lights at the Magnetic Hill Zoo

So, here is my wife and I at the Magnetic Hill Zoo in Moncton, NB. It is mid December and it is as cold as it looks, but we never miss an opportunity to go the the "Wild Lights" event put on each year during the Christmas Season.

With approximately 170,000 visitors per year, the Magnetic Hill Zoo is the largest in Atlantic Canada and the locals are justifiably proud of it. Since the 1970's it has grown from a "Game Farm", where orphaned local wild critters were looked after, to a full fledged award winning zoo.

The Magnetic Hill Zoo is spread over 40 acres in the north-west part of the city, and boasts 70 different indigenous and exotic species divided into four global zones - Americas, Africa, Asia, and Discovery. They host many seasonal events as well as educational summer camps. By the way, it is also an awesome place to just spend a sunny afternoon strolling around.

However, I'm writing specifically to tell you about one event that happens during December called "Wild Lights". It is brilliantly done, well worth the low price of admission. Dozens of volunteers spend thousands of person hours putting up lights and displays throughout the zoo. It is an amazing thing to see. As a bonus, on nicer evenings, some of the animals are out where you can see them as well. When it happens to be very cold, they stay in their nice warm habitats and laugh at those crazy two legged animals wandering around in the cold.

Of course the Siberian Tigers are usually out regardless of the temperature. They are big, beautiful kitties and I'm always thankful for the two tall chain link fences between them and me!

Part way around there is a coffee / hot chocolate station and a couple of large bonfires run by volunteers to help you warm up. When you leave the gift shop is open as well.

It takes about 1 1/2 to 2 hours to walk around and admire the sights. Since it is dark by 5:00 in December, this is definitely an event the younger children can take in as well. Just make sure everyone dresses for the weather. Remember there is no bad weather - just bad clothing! Get out there and take it all in.

Here are just a few of the many displays that have been set up. The blue globe is new this year. They continue to add to their displays so it's a great excuse for you to go every year!