'The Gift of Lights' returns to Potawatomi Zoo starting Nov. 29

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- "The Gift of Lights" will return to the Potawatomi Zoo this holiday season starting on Nov. 29.

The special holiday lights event will be every Friday and Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m. through Dec. 22.

Admission for "The Gift of Lights" is $14 for adults ages 15-61, $10 for children 3-14, and seniors 62 and up.

Babies 2 and under are free and admission for Zoo Members is $10 for adults and $6 for children.

“The Gift of Lights is a great tradition here at the Zoo,” says Josh Sisk, Executive Director of the Potawatomi Zoo. “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.”

Zoo officials say Santa will be in the River Run Yurt every night starting at 5 p.m.

Elsa will be at the Zoo on Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m.

The Grinch will make special appearances at the Zoo on various nights, and there's no charge to meet any of the costumed characters.

The South Bend Civic Theatre is scheduled to perform on the Dragonfly Deck on Dec. 20 and 21, starting at 6 p.m.

Giraffe feeding is $3 for two pieces of lettuce will take place in the Laidig Giraffe Conservation Center until half an hour before the Zoo closes.

Potawatomi Zoo Express train tickets are $3 per person, 2 and over. Officials say the Zoo train will run as the weather permits.

The Lodge will also 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.

The Zoo Gift Shop, Learning Center, and giraffe barn will all be open during "The Gift of Lights."

Officials say the Endangered Species Carousel will not run during the winter.