Lansing’s Potter Park Zoo is always good for a visit – but during the holiday season it really shines. In fact, the zoo’s annual Wonderland of Lights and Winter Wine & Stein events have become a part of the area’s holiday traditions.
The Lansing area hosts a number of popular, annual holiday events – Silver Bells in the City, Winter Glow, and Christmas at Meridian Historical Village, to name just a few.
Two popular events that help to make the Lansing holiday season bright every year are held at Potter Park Zoo. Actually, the zoo hosts numerous special events throughout the year.
Potter Park Zoo
1301 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Lansing, MI 48912
Potter Park Zoo is home to more than 500 animals from 160 different species, many of which are threatened or endangered. Their population includes African lions, Amur tigers, snow leopards, black rhinos, meerkats, lemurs, mandrills and more. The zoo opened in the 1920’s and has been wowing visitors ever since.
Though an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Potter Park is not your typical zoo. Beyond the amazing animals, Potter Park also offers a variety of other attractions, including bungee jumping, pony rides, and even a park train. Though the zoo is open year-round, many of its special attractions are seasonal.
Potter Park Zoo is also known for its variety of fun and exciting events held throughout the year. Events like Wonderland of Lights and Wine & Stein!
Potter Park Zoo Wonderland of Lights 2018
Thursdays through Sundays, November 22nd through December 30th, 2018 – 5pm to 8pm
Come see the zoo after it has been transformed into a magical winter wonderland! Thousands of sparkling lights and displays turn the zoo’s 102 acre grounds into an extraordinary winter fantasy land.
Wonderland of Lights also includes cookies, crafts, and carolers. There will also be story-telling, animal presentations, musical performances, and even appearances by Mr. and Mrs Claus. Come stroll through the zoo, enjoy the festive displays, and warm yourself with a cup of cocoa by the bonfire.
Admission to Wonderland of Lights is $7 for adults, $5 for kids aged 3-12. Children 3 and under are free. Toys for Tots night is December 1st: free admission for each person who brings in a new, unwrapped toy.
Learn more at the zoo website or Facebook.
Potter Park Zoo Wine & Stein 2018
Wednesday, December 5th, 2018 – 5pm to 9pm – Must be 21 years of age or older
Wine & Stein is a fun opportunity to enjoy a casual, after hours bash at the zoo. Sample wines, craft beers, and ciders alongside delicious hors d’oeuvres from some of the area’s best restaurants.
You’ll also be treated to cheery holiday music, the Wonderland of Lights, and of course, Potter Park Zoo’s wonderful residents.
Advance tickets are $30 and available online; $35 at the gate. Learn more at the zoo website or follow this event on Facebook.
Lansing Lodging
Make the most of your holiday getaway with accommodations at The English Inn Restaurant & Pub. The English Inn is only a half hour’s drive from the Capital City, in Eaton Rapids, MI. The lush, old-world beauty of our historic estate makes us worth a visit any time of the year! Come enjoy fine dining at our full-service restaurant, cocktails in our English pub, and unbeatable comfort and service at our historic inn. Happy Holidays!