Public Employee Press

Bronx Zoo lights up the nights

A wild kingdom of camels, lions, tigers and bears awakens at dusk as the Holiday Lights festival brightens the Bronx Zoo from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4. Each year in a winter celebration, the 411 members of Local 1501 invite children of all ages to enjoy a menagerie of creatures, real and magically illuminated.

“We are the lifeblood of the Bronx Zoo,” said Local 1501 President Anthony Bigone, whose members include cafeteria workers, electricians, carpenters, ticket takers, security guards and zoo keepers who care for the animals and maintain zoo exhibits.

Visit the park after dark, from 5 to 9 p.m., and see live Siberian tigers, reindeer and sea lions, as well as 140 holiday light sculptures, stilt walkers and storytellers. Sip hot cocoa and ride the zoo’s Holiday Train around the North Pole or a take a whirl on the Polar Express.

Mr. Bigone said, “We work with management to create a safe and spectacular seasonal event for DC 37 members, New Yorkers and tourists to enjoy.”

Admission to the Holiday Lights festival is $10 for adults and $7.00 for children and seniors. It’s open from Nov. 21 to Dec. 14, Fridays through Sundays, and Dec. 15 to Jan. 4, Mondays through Sundays (except Dec. 24 and 25).

To plan your own escapade, visit www.bronxzoo.com or call 718-367-1010 for more information.