Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Photo Recap: ZooLights

Zoo-Magination at the Visitor's Center

It takes half a million LED lights to illuminate the National Zoo during ZooLights; so it's only fitting that the 31-day FREE event is sponsored by the fine folks at Pepco. LED lights use about 90% less electricity than traditional incandescent lights; but it still has to fetch a pretty penny. I'm not sure how much it costs to keep things lit from 5 to 9:00 PM; but after one long (cold) stroll through the Zoo's magnificent grounds after dark, I guarantee it's worth it. It's truly one of those events you have to see and experience for yourself.

In addition to the light show, several buildings are open for late-night inspection. Step inside the Great Ape House, Reptile Discovery Center, Small Mammal House or the Visitor's Center to see some actual animals... or just to escape the cold for a few minutes. There's also a solar-powered Conservation Carousel, National Zoo Choo-Choo, and a chance to go Zoo Tubing down a pair of 150-foot tracks on Lion/Tiger Hill. All three attractions cost $3 per ride.

ZooLights ends tonight... before "shutting down" until late next November.

Zebra

Chameleon

Tiger

Toucan

Asian Elephant

Crab

Elephant

Green Tree Python

Golden Lion Tamarin