A Winter Safari too Good to Miss

Thousands have made Electric Safari a holiday tradition, but for those of you who are new to the event, we’ve created a top-five list of activities you will not want to miss. Even if you’ve attended before, you might discover something new. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo will be warming the hearts of families with the 22^nd year of Electric Safari, running nightly through January 1, 2013, from 5:30-8:30pm, with the exception of Christmas Eve. For those looking to avoid crowds, try visiting during the week.

Here comes…animal fun!

Animals are always the stars of Electric Safari, and presentations by our animal keepers will enhance your visit. If you’re here during the week, try to catch Wednesday’s 7:30pm enrichment demonstration. You’ll see our African lions rip into stockings filled with goodies from Santa – goodies lionesses love, including food and perfumed boxes. Friday through Monday at 6pm, watch the elephants at their featured demonstration. You might see them tear bark off logs using their feet (Kimba’s specialty) or watch them move barrels around with their trunks to get at hidden treats. With multiple keeper talks and demonstrations each night, your favorite animal is sure to be featured in a whole new light. Nightly schedules are available at the front gate.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are coming to town. 

St. Nick and Mrs. Claus will be spreading cheer and granting wishes in Safari Lodge every night through Sunday, December 23. After delivering millions of gifts around the world, Santa deserves a big thank you. This year, children can share their gratitude with Santa and Mrs. Claus when they return from the North Pole - only for Cheyenne Mountain Zoo guests. Don’t miss the opportunity to teach kids about the sprit of giving, receiving and saying, “Thank you, Santa” on Saturday, December 29.

It’s going to be a blue (red, yellow, white and purple) Christmas.

We have OVER ONE MILLION LIGHTS. But we didn’t stop after stringing lights around trees. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s horticulture staff designed and built more than 40 one-of-a-kind animated animal sculptures. All your favorites are back this year, and be sure to look for new ones, mainly in Encounter Africa. Our favorite is the new “elephant pushing over an apple tree” sculpture.

The fire is so delightful.

As you stroll around Electric Safari, take a moment to warm up by one of the fires. Share your favorite holiday memories with your family, or simply listen to the sound of the crackling fire. The warmth of the fire mixed with crisp mountain air will engulf you in the sprit of the season. If you still need some extra warmth, stop into the Grizzly Grill and purchase a fresh-baked holiday spice cookie and a cup of hot chocolate.   

See it from the Mountain!

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers spectacular views of the city from all over our mountain side. The new sky bridge to the elephant barn and the path in front of the Grizzly Grill offer great views. For the more adventurous, the view from the top of the Mountaineer Sky Ride is a sight you cannot afford to miss. On your flight up, look down into animal exhibits, get a new angle on the Zoo lights and see the splendor of Colorado Springs and beyond. Pick out your favorite city landmarks – the Broadmoor, downtown and maybe even your own neighborhood. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

Lights, campfires, animals, jolly old St. Nick. A winter safari too good to miss. Come celebrate the spirit of the holidays at Electric Safari with our Cheyenne Mountain Zoo family! For more information visit: www.cmzoo.org/ElectricSafari.