Living Desert Celebrates 25 Years Of 'Wildlights'

PALM DESERT, CA — The Living Desert zoo's annual Christmas celebration, "Wildlights," begins Friday evening and will continue through Christmas Eve.

The zoo is celebrating 25 years of the holiday tradition, which brings Santa and his reindeer to the desert. Two reindeer, 8-year-old Cookie and 8- month-old Thunder, will be on hand for up-close and personal viewings, with a select number of guests able to purchase the opportunity to feed and take pictures with the reindeer.

Wildlights, taking place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. nightly until Dec. 24, will also feature animal lanterns created from Christmas lights, train rides on the Polar Express, a chance to play in the snow, and more.

Animal encounters, keeper chats, camel and carousel rides will also be offered nightly.

Admission to Wildlights is $10 for adults, $8 for zoo members, children and military members with valid ID. Children under three get in for free.

— By City News Service / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone