Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Holiday Happenings

This year, Beardsley Zoo is pairing up with Oliver’s Pajama Project to bring pajamas to underserved communities throughout the state as well as offering three fun weekends of Holiday Happenings. Oliver Koenig-Paquin is a young boy whose dream is to make sure every boy and girl has a pair of new pajamas to keep them warm and cozy at night. Throughout the holiday season, the Zoo will be collecting pajamas at the front gate: all ages and sizes needed!

On December 4-5, December 11-12 and December 18-19, 2021, the Zoo will provide festive holiday fare in the Elf Kitchen, featuring hot chocolate, gingerbread, sugar cookies, savory soups, and other festive holiday specialties. Santa’s Sleigh will be set up for Family Photos. Take a stroll through the Zoo and enjoy special crafts and activities with the children, including story times and two appearances each weekend day by a magician. Thirty wreaths from Wreaths Across America can be found around Zoo grounds, to remember fallen U.S. veterans and honor those who serve.

On Saturday, Dec 4 and Saturday, Dec 18, the Zoo will hold a Pajama Parade with Frosty the Snowman, Stripes the Tiger, and Thirsty the Penguin marching alongside Grand Marshal Oliver, founder of Oliver’s Pajama Project. We encourage guests to wear pajamas and bring pajamas to the parade, then take a family holiday pajama photo!

Holiday Happenings: Family Photos, Crafts and Activities, Magic Shows, Festive Fare

Magic Moments Magic Show: Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 11 am and 1 pm in the Greenhouse

Holiday Story Time: Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 10 am and 2 pm in the W.O.L.F. Cabin

Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt: Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19: One Zoo Family Membership awarded.

Special Pajama Parade: Dec 4 and Dec 18 at noon. Wear your pajamas to the parade!

Oliver’s Pajama Project Drop Off Point: November 27-December 30 at the Front Gate