Big Joel's Holiday Safari
Visitors can explore the zoo decorated for the holiday season and see seasonal animal displays highlighting winter-hardy species. Guests can stay warm by the fire pits, make treats with s'more kits, and enjoy hot cocoa, drinks, and snacks. An expanded holiday gift shop also offers toys, stocking stuffers, and Christmas ornaments.
What to Expect
Holiday-decorated petting zoo featuring winter-hardy animals and fire pits.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Big Joel's Safari
Food & Drink
Hot cocoa, drinks, snacks, and s’more kits are offered; s’more kits are sold for use at the fire pits.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children and animal lovers
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $14 per person for ages 13 and up, plus tax; $10 per person for ages 2–12, plus tax; children under 2 free. – Get tickets
- Hours: 10am–4:00pm; Thursday through Monday for the November 19–December 16 schedule, and every day December 17–31.
Tips & Advice
- Plan a daytime visit, since this year's Holiday Safari runs during regular daytime hours only, with no evening sessions.
- Check the weather before heading out, because the park closes during winter precipitation or low temperatures.
- Follow the park's own directions rather than your GPS, which may not route you accurately to the zoo on State Highway M.
- Pick up a s'more kit and warm up at the fire pits between animal visits, especially on a chilly winter day.
- Bring photo ID if you're over 18 and using a season pass, since it must be shown with the pass at entry.
Special Events & Promotions
- S'more kits are sold separately for toasting at the fire pits.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will all the animals be out in winter?
Not every species is on view this time of year, and some depend on the weather. The winter-hardy animals are highlighted, and there are still plenty of animals around.
What happens in bad winter weather?
The park closes when there's winter precipitation or low temperatures.
Is there food and drink?
Yes. There's hot cocoa, drinks and snacks. S'more kits are sold for toasting at the fire pits.
What's in the holiday gift shop?
The shop is expanded for the season with toys, stocking stuffers and Christmas ornaments. You can also get Big Joel's Safari gift certificates and 2026/2027 season passes.
Can I rely on GPS to find the park?
GPS may not be accurate for the park. Use the directions Big Joel's provides instead.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.