LV ZOO WELCOMES A NEW ELAND, WHILE MOURNING THE LOSS OF ONE OF ITS OLDEST RESIDENTS
Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Lehigh Valley Zoo in conjunction with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), is thrilled to announce the birth of a male Common Eland born to mother Alexis and father Code. The Zoo is also excited to announce his name is Stacks, named by a Zoo donor. Stacks was born on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27. 

This birth brings the eland herd up to five members. Just last January, another male calf, David, was born to mother Moira and father Code. Eland social structure maintains a hierarchy of males, and the highest-ranking male is the main breeder.

Eland pregnancies last between eight and nine months, which gave the Animal Care and Veterinary staff time to be prepared for his arrival. The calf and its mother were kept in a separate space to allow the two to bond and to also give the calf time to nurse, grow and strengthen before being introduced to the rest of the herd. The calf has since had an examination by LV Zoo’s Veterinary team and was found to be a healthy male, weighing 75 pounds. As the second largest antelope species, a full grown male common eland can weigh over two tons.

LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

Unfortunately, shortly after the eland birth, the zoo experienced the loss of one of its oldest residents, Plains Zebra, Glenda, who was approximately 26 years old when she passed on Dec. 2. Born in Texas, Glenda moved to the LV Zoo in 2007. Throughout her time in Schnecksville, Animal Care staff found that she was always very sassy and spirited. Glenda lived with the Zoo’s ostrich, Bane, and her zebra herd-mate, Rylea. They spent their days grazing together and were known to spend a lot of time right in front of the habitat at the guest viewing area. While zebra can be a difficult animal to train, Glenda was an eager participant. She was known to run to the fence to meet her keeper for a session.

Staff and guests have had the pleasure of visiting with Glenda for over 18 years, and she will definitely be missed.

Guests can visit whole eland herd, along with the other Zoo residents, during its daytime hours of Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. LV Zoo will be closed Dec. 24-25, as well as Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.

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About Jefferson

Lehigh Valley Health Network is now proudly part of Jefferson Health. Nationally ranked, Jefferson, which is principally located in the Greater Philadelphia region, Lehigh Valley and northeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey, is reimagining health care and higher education to create unparalleled value. Jefferson is more than 65,000 people strong, dedicated to providing the highest-quality, compassionate clinical care for patients; making our communities healthier and stronger; preparing tomorrow’s professional leaders for 21st-century careers; and creating new knowledge through basic/programmatic, clinical and applied research. Thomas Jefferson University, home of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Nursing, and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, dates back to 1824 and today comprises 10 colleges and three schools offering 200+ undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 8,300 students. Jefferson Health, nationally ranked as one of the top 15 not-for-profit health care systems in the country and the largest provider in the Philadelphia and Lehigh Valley areas, serves patients through millions of encounters each year at 32 hospitals and more than 700 outpatient and urgent care locations throughout the region. Jefferson Health Plans is a not-for-profit managed health care organization providing a broad range of health coverage options in Pennsylvania and New Jersey for more than 35 years.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

— SmartFun—

LEHIGH COUNTY AND LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO FOSTER TRANSFER OF BISON FOR CONSERVATION AND CULTURAL REVITALIZATION
Four Bison Bulls Successfully Relocated to Seneca Nation to Help Restore Grassland Ecosystems and Native Food Sovereignty

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Lehigh County, Lehigh Valley Zoo, Wildlife Restoration Foundation (WRF) and Seneca Nation of Indians (SNI) have successfully relocated four bison bulls from the Trexler Nature Preserve in Pennsylvania to Seneca Nation lands in New York. This second relocation marks a special achievement for the budding Zoo-Tribe Partnership facilitated by WRF between LV Zoo and Seneca Nation and a milestone on the path toward creating a conservation herd at the Trexler Nature Preserve that can serve as model of keeping bison wild and contributing to grasslands recovery on a small scale.

“This day has been months in the making, and to see it all come together for this transfer was very rewarding. We’re very excited to continue in this process and creating these partnerships was a necessary step,” said LV Zoo General Curator Sara Koplish of the date of transfer, Nov. 19. “Through this collaboration, the Zoo is able to make a much bigger impact for bison.”

Return of Bison to the Northeast

• Maintaining natural herd structures and behaviors
• Ensuring genetic diversity and quality
• Implementing advanced herd management and health strategies
• Restoring native grasslands and documenting benefits to obligate wildlife species
• Enhancing public education through signage and guest experiences

For more information about the Lehigh Valley Zoo’s conservation initiatives, educational offerings, how to become a member, or to schedule a tour, please visit lvzoo.org and follow the Zoo’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

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Media Contacts:

Lehigh Valley Zoo– Matt Provence, COO, mprovence@lvzoo.org; Sara Koplish, General Curator, skoplish@lvzoo.org
Lehigh County – Rick Molchany, Director of General Services; RickMolchany@lehighcounty.org
Seneca Nation– Stephanie Keis, Executive Director, Seneca Media & Communications Center; stephanie.keis@sni.org; 716-713-5396
Wildlife Restoration Foundation – Julie Anton Randall, jantonrandall@wildlifeandparks.org

About the Seneca Nation of Indians
The Seneca Nation is a sovereign Native Nation and the largest nation of the Haudenosaunee, also known as the Iroquois Confederacy. The Seneca people have lived on the lands in what is today the western part of New York State for time immemorial and have made countless contributions to the region’s history, culture, and economy. Today, the Seneca Nation has more than 8,500 enrolled members, most of whom live on several distinct territories in Western New York. For more information, visit: www.sni.org.

About the Wildlife Restoration Foundation
The Wildlife Restoration Foundation (www.wildlifeandparks.org) is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization based in Virginia with a mission to use partnerships to directly and measurably increase native wildlife population viability and foster wildlife coexistence with human communities. Through neutral facilitation and resources, WRF empowers partners to intervene with direct and innovative conservation measures on the ground and in the water. For more information, visit www.wildlifeandparks.org.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

— SmartFun—

WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR (WLS) CANCELLED TONIGHT
Winter Weather Advisory and Potential Hazardous Driving Conditions Force Cancellation of WLS on Wednesday

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Due to a winter weather advisory and potential hazardous driving conditions this evening, Winter Lights Spectacular at Lehigh Valley Zoo has been cancelled tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 10, for the safety of guests and staff. The event will reopen on its next scheduled date, Thursday, Dec. 11, at 5 p.m.

The Sensory Inclusive Hour scheduled for tonight has been rescheduled for Thursday, Dec. 18, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

All ticket holders for tonight’s event will receive an email with rescheduling instructions within the next few hours.

The 12th Anniversary of Winter Light Spectacular opened Friday and will run through Jan. 3, 2026. Tickets can be purchased at winterlightspectacular.com, which also includes the full schedule along with a listing of daily hours, activities and performance times.

Winter Light Spectacular is presented by Service Electric TV & Communications and powered by Christmas Décor.

— SmartFun—

PHASE 1 OF THE CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY AREA IS COMPLETE
LV Zoo Hosted a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday to Officially Open the Area to Guests

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Phase 1 of the Children’s Activity Area (CAA) is now complete, as Lehigh Valley Zoo hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for lead donors, legislators and working media on Wednesday to officially open the Fred & Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard and St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital Playground. These two new areas will now be available to guests during LV Zoo’s winter hours of Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“The Zoo is extremely excited to welcome our community to the first completed phase of the Children’s Activity Area,” LV Zoo President & CEO Amanda Shurr said. “We are incredibly thankful to our donors, sponsors and project partners who have enabled us to greatly enhance the Zoo’s facilities for staff, guests and, of course, animals. Despite the timing of this grand opening during the Zoo’s less busy season, we are excited for this momentum as we transition into the next phases of this project.” 

The entire CAA project has an expected completion date of 2027 and includes the construction of the Isaacman Family Education Center (Phase 2) and the addition of the splash pad and improvements to other guest amenities in this section of the zoo (Phases 3 and 4). The $10 M project will be supported by philanthropy, public support and zoo funding. Information about the CAA and how to become a contributor can be found at lvzoo.org/CAA. Currently, the zoo has raised $3.7 million of its $10 million goal.

Fred & Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard

The reconfiguration of LV Zoo’s barnyard is highlighted by a new, two-story, custom-designed building to be open year-round. The barn, which features 10 stalls with access to outside yards and a community area, consists of approximately 2,800 square feet of interior space and a total of 3,200 square feet including exterior yards. Guests will be able to walk through this modern barn and see the animal “bedrooms” as well as participate in brushing or feeding those residents that wish to participate. The layout of the barn and barnyard will also have a positive impact on the ability of the zoo’s animal care team to support these animals. The barn was built by King Construction of New Holland, Pa.

“The Jaindl Family has always felt the Lehigh Valley Zoo was a tremendous community asset and we are proud to continue our support with the Fred and Anne Jaindl Barnyard,” said David Jaindl, owner and president of Jaindl Farms.

St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital Playground

The new playground is approximately 5,500 square feet, featuring modern, accessible equipment and poured-in-place safety surfacing. The area is highlighted by two play structures — a large structure designed for guests ages 5 to 12 that measures 24 feet tall and a smaller structure at 13 feet tall for guests between the ages of 2 and 5. There is also a trio of StemPlay structures, customized panels and spinners, and a 360-loop with an accessible slide-transfer-climbers combination. The playground was designed and constructed by Recreation Resource USA and BCI Burke Company.

“At St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital, our mission goes beyond medical care. We’re committed to creating a supportive, family-centered environment for every child and family we serve.” said Jennifer Janco, MD, Chair of Pediatrics. “That’s why we’re so excited to partner with the Lehigh Valley Zoo on the new St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital Playground, designed to give kids of all abilities the chance to express themselves and experience the power of play.”

The CAA marks LV Zoo’s third major construction project in the past three years, as the zoo added Habitat Madagascar – a new exhibit that houses mongoose lemurs, red ruffed lemurs and tortoises – on May 26, 2023, and Rothrock Red Panda Peak on June 7, 2024.

Guests can now enjoy the Fred & Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard and St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital Playground, as well as the entire zoo by purchasing tickets at lvzoo.org. Beginning in March, the zoo is back to opening seven days per week.

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About St. Luke’s

Founded in 1872, St. Luke’s University Health Network (SLUHN) is a fully integrated, regional, non-profit network with annual net revenue of more than $4.5 billion. With 23,000+ employees at 16 hospital campuses and 350+ outpatient sites, it is the Lehigh Valley’s biggest employer.
The Network’s service area includes 11 counties in two states: Lehigh, Northampton, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Montgomery, Monroe, Schuylkill and Luzerne counties in Pennsylvania and Warren and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey. St. Luke’s hospitals operate the largest network of trauma centers in Pennsylvania, with the Bethlehem Campus being home to St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital.
Dedicated to advancing medical education, St. Luke’s is the preeminent teaching hospital in central-eastern Pennsylvania. In partnership with Temple University, the Network established the Lehigh Valley’s first and only four-year medical school. It also operates the nation’s oldest School of Nursing, established in 1884, and 50+ fully accredited graduate medical educational programs with 500+ residents and fellows.
St. Luke’s has been named a Leapfrog Group and Healthgrades Top Hospital and a Newsweek World’s Best Hospital. It is the only Lehigh Valley-based health care system to earn Medicare’s five-star ratings (the highest) for quality, efficiency and patient satisfaction. In 2025, the Network earned straight A’s from Leapfrog across all of its 11 acute care hospitals. It has earned 100 Top Hospital designations from Premier 11 years in a row, including in 2021 when its flagship University Hospital was identified as THE #1 TEACHING HOSPITAL IN THE COUNTRY. Utilizing the Epic electronic medical record (EMR) system for both inpatient and outpatient services, the Network is a multi-year recipient of the Most Wired award recognizing the breadth of SLUHN’s information technology applications such as telehealth, online scheduling and online pricing information.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

— SmartFun—

LV ZOO TO OFFER A-TREAT SODA STARTING WITH WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
The Region’s Original Walk-Through Lights Extravaganza Returns to Lehigh Valley Zoo on Friday

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Two regional favorites are pairing up, as Lehigh Valley Zoo will be offering the historic A-Treat® brand of Pennsylvania soda, produced and distributed by Jaindl Beverage Company (a division of the Jaindl Companies), for the first time ever beginning with the start of Winter Light Spectacular (WLS) on Nov. 14. Tickets to 12^th annual event can be purchased at winterlightspectacular.com.

On Oct. 23, A-Treat® announced the re-introduction of its customer-favorite flavors in newly-designed 12-pack fridge-friendly cans. Along with the brand’s popularity, the new, aluminum packaging aligned with the zoo’s #kNOwplasticscampaign. As a community leader in conservation, LV Zoo embarked on the journey of eliminating single-use plastics within the zoo and helping its local community reduce plastic consumption.

“We always strive to maximize the experiences of zoo guests – and that includes all in-park amenities,” LV Zoo President & CEO Amanda Shurr said. “A-Treat beverages and unique flavors are iconic within our community, so we are excited to offer them here at the zoo. Additionally, we are thrilled to partner with a company that has recognized the importance of the zoo’s mission and so generously supported our efforts.”

As part of the partnership, and for a limited time, visitors to the zoo will also receive a special discount code with their online WLS ticket purchase, offering $5 off their pre-order of a Jaindl Turkey for Thanksgiving or Christmas at the Jaindl retail store in Orefield or online at www.jaindl.com.

Further, The Fred J. Jaindl Foundation and the David and Jackie Jaindl Family have both made a significant impact on the first phase of the Children’s Activity Area – a major renovation to the lower part of zoo – which includes the Fred and Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard, which is expected to open soon.

“The Lehigh Valley Zoo holds a special place in our community, and we couldn’t think of a better setting to share the excitement around A-Treat’s return to cans,” said David Jaindl, President & CEO of Jaindl Beverage Company. “A-Treat and the Zoo are both long-standing local treasures that bring families together, and especially this holiday season we’re proud to celebrate that shared sense of tradition, fun, and community.”

A-Treat® classic flavors now available in aluminum are Birch Beer, Black Cherry, Frosty Cream, Ginger Ale, Grapefruit, Orange and White Birch Beer. The updated 12-pack fridge packs were initially being launched in Redner’s Warehouse Markets and Boyer’s Food Markets, with additional retail availability to follow.

Located at LV Zoo in Schnecksville, Pa., WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Todayin “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.” In addition to 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction – WLS also features classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. Dan’s Camera City will be back offering picture packages with Santa Claus during select time frames at select event dates through Dec. 23. Again, visit winterlightspectacular.com for dates, times and promotions.

Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo. While guests may spot some of the Zoo’s “night owls” during WLS, most of the animals will be off exhibit.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com or follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

LV Zoo is currently operating under winter hours, open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.lvzoo.org.

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About A-Treat® (www.a-treat.com)

The Allentown, PA-based soda brand was founded in 1918 by Joseph and Jack Egizio using the finest traditional ingredients available that consumers and enthusiasts have counted on for over 100 years. After being acquired by Jaindl Companies, the iconic A-TREAT® made a resurgence, still produced according to formulas that evolved from Egizio family recipes. To learn more visit A-TREAT.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

— SmartFun—

LV ZOO WELCOMES ITS FIRST-EVER, NEWBORN FEMALE ALPACA
Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, Pa.) — Lehigh Valley Zoo in conjunction with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, is excited to announce the birth of a its first-ever female baby alpaca, born on Thursday, Oct. 23. The cria marks the third offspring for mother Illuminati and father Havoc, joining males, Buzz (Sept. 12, 2023) and Tupaca (Aug. 22, 2024) – and increasing LV Zoo’s alpaca herd to five members.

Unlike the rest of her family, this cria has black fleece. Black colored alpacas are very rare and very fittingly, she was born around Halloween.

Shortly after the cria was born, LV Zoo’s animal care staff relocated her and mother into a separate, adjacent pasture to allow the newborn to nurse and bond with mom. She was a small cria, weighing just under 10 pounds — so it was also important to ensure that she was nursing well and growing steadily. By comparison, youngest brother Tupaca was born weighing 13.6 pounds. Cria typically nurse for about five months; and at around two months, they will start to consume solid foods.

This week, the herd was reunited and the little cria seems to be enjoying life with her whole family. They are all now currently living in a pasture where guests can visit the newest addition.

Alpaca gestation typically lasts around 11-12 months – between 320-375 days.

Seven-year-old Illuminati and nine-year-old Havoc arrived at LV Zoo together in October 2022 from a private facility for breeding purposes. Alpacas are native to the central and southern Andes Mountains, from Peru to Argentina and are the smallest of the domesticated camelid species.

The new alpaca still needs a name. In partnership with LVHN, LV Zoo is seeking name suggestions on Facebook – allowing the animal care staff the opportunity to select its favorite submission.

LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

LV Zoo is currently operating under winter hours, open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.lvzoo.org.

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About Jefferson

Jefferson is reimagining health care and higher education to create unparalleled value throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. More than 65,000 people strong, Jefferson is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate clinical care for patients; making our communities healthier and stronger; preparing tomorrow’s professional leaders for 21st-century careers; and creating new knowledge through basic/programmatic, clinical and applied research. Thomas Jefferson University, home of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Nursing, and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, dates back to 1824 and today comprises 10 colleges and three schools offering 200+ undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 8,300 students. Jefferson Health, nationally ranked as one of the top 15 not-for-profit health care systems in the country and the largest provider in the Philadelphia and Lehigh Valley areas, serves patients through millions of encounters each year at 32 hospital campuses and more than 700 outpatient and urgent care locations throughout the region. Jefferson Health Plans, through Health Partners Plans, Inc., is a not-for-profit managed health care organization offering a broad range of health coverage options to more than 370,000 members for more than 40 years.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram .

— SmartFun—

WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE REVEALED
The Region’s Original Walk-Through Lights Extravaganza Returns to Lehigh Valley Zoo on Nov. 14

Schnecksville, Pa.) —Lehigh Valley Zoo has revealed the Princess Performance Schedule for its 12^th-annual Winter Light Spectacular (WLS), presented by Service Electric TV & Communications and powered by Christmas Decor, which opens on Friday, Nov. 14. The performances and meet-and-greet sessions have been a guest favorite at Eastern Pennsylvania’s most popular holiday tradition. Tickets to all 37 scheduled dates are available at winterlightspectacular.com.

A complete performance schedule can be found at bit.ly/PrincessesWLS.

Each night features at least two beloved performers. Once again, the popular Elsa will perform every night; and she will be joined by her sister, Anna, to perform together every Saturday.

LV Zoo staff is excited about a brand new WLS experience that is scheduled for two dates. In honor of Taylor Swift’s 36^th birthday, a Swift Sing-Along with Jo will take place on Friday, Dec. 13. There will encore presentation on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 31.

A trio of Wicked Wednesdays will feature the first-ever WLS appearances by Elphaba and Fiyero on Nov. 26 and return appearances by Glinda on Dec. 10 and Dec. 17. Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas will make her one annual appearance on Wednesday, Dec. 3. Snow White will also make a WLS debut on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

Other returning princesses making multiple appearances throughout WLS are Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella and Rapunzel. As in years past, there will be a Princess Party – featuring six performers – on the final night of the event, Saturday, Jan. 3.

Additionally, there are five scheduled Fridays that feature a meet-and-greet with Jessie from Toy Story (Nov. 21, 28; Dec. 5, 19; Jan. 2).

Located at LV Zoo in Schnecksville, Pa., WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Today in “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.” In addition to 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction – WLS also features classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. Dan’s Camera City will be back offering picture packages with Santa Claus during select time frames at select event dates through Dec. 23. Again, visit winterlightspectacular.com for dates, times and promotions.

Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo. While guests may spot some of the Zoo’s “night owls” during WLS, most of the animals will be off exhibit.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com or follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

###

As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram.

— SmartFun—

TICKETS ON SALE WEDNESDAY FOR THE 12TH-ANNUAL WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
The Region’s Original Walk-Through Lights Extravaganza Returns to Lehigh Valley Zoo for 37 Dates

Schnecksville, Pa.) — Eastern Pennsylvania’s most popular holiday tradition returns when Lehigh Valley Zoo and Christmas Décor host the 12^th-annual Winter Light Spectacular(WLS), presented by Service Electric TV & Communications. The popular event is scheduled for 37 dates this season, spanning from Friday, Nov. 14, through Saturday, Jan. 3. Tickets go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at winterlightspectacular.com.

Located at LV Zoo in Schnecksville, Pa., WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Today in “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.”

In addition to 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction – WLS features classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. There will also be live performances every night featuring popular princesses, such as Elsa, Anna, Ariel and Rapunzel. Additionally, Dan’s Camera City will be back offering picture packages with Santa Claus during select time frames at select event date through Dec. 23. Again, visit winterlightspectacular.com for dates, times and promotions.

Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo.

For the sixth consecutive year, WLS will feature timed-ticketing set for two-hour sessions. This modification has significantly improved the guest experience since 2020 by greatly improving traffic flow into the Zoo and positively impacting parking availability. Due to the popularity of this event and the likelihood of sold-out dates, the LV Zoo strongly recommends purchasing your tickets online to guarantee availability.

General Admission

GA Ticket prices remain $16 for adults and $14 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased in advance online; $18 for adults and $16 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased at the event. LV Zoo Members receive a discounted rate of $10 per ticket when purchased in advance online; $12 for member adults and $10 for member children when purchased at the event.

Infants (ages 0-1) are free and there is no fee for parking.

VIP Admission

Guests can upgrade the experience with VIP Tickets, available in limited quantities each night. In addition to VIP-only access to the Jingle Lodge Lounge, each VIP Ticket includes the 2025 version of the annual WLS Souvenir Travel Tumbler, unlimited free hot chocolate, an exclusive VIP hot chocolate toppings bar, a S’more kit, a commemorative 2025 Ornament for all VIP Adults, a Light-Up Pop Tube for all VIP children, and a chance to warm up from the cold! VIP Tickets are priced at $35 for adults and $32 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased in advance online; $36 for adults and $33 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased at the event. LV Zoo Members receive a discounted rate of $29 for member adults and $27 for member children when purchased in advance online; $30 for member adults and $28 for member children when purchased at the event.

Group Admission

Special group rates are available for advanced purchase for outings of 20+ people at $13 per ticket and 100+ people at $12 per ticket. To book a group outing, or purchase a corporate block, please call the Zoo during normal business hours at (610) 799-4171.

While guests may spot some of the Zoo’s “night owls” during WLS, most of the animals will be off exhibit.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com or follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

# # #

2025 SCHEDULE

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

— SmartFun—

LV ZOO’S CONSERVATION GALA SET FOR OCT. 16 AT THE CLUB AT TWIN LAKES
The Zoo’s Annual Fundraiser is Presented by Members 1st Federal Credit Union

(Schnecksville, Pa.) – Lehigh Valley Zoo officially announced its annual Conservation Gala, presented by Members 1st Federal Credit Union, is set for Thursday, Oct. 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Club at Twin Lakes in Allentown. Information about the event, ticket and table sales, sponsorship and the online auction is available at [www.lvzoo.org/conservationgala]www.lvzoo.org/conservationgala.

The Conservation Gala is the non-profit zoo’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds raised at the event help LV Zoo to continue its mission of connecting its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife while being a leader in conservation education and action.

“Partnering with the Lehigh Valley Zoo allows us to support meaningful conservation efforts right here in our community,” said Sara Firestone, Vice President of Community & Public Relations at Members 1st Federal Credit Union. “The Conservation Gala is a celebration of community coming together to protect wildlife and create a lasting impact for future generations. We are honored to help make that possible.”

A unique feature of LV Zoo’s annual gala is that attendees have the opportunity to meet, learn about and interact with several of the zoo’s education animals during cocktail hours (5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.). Additionally, attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar during cocktail hours, a gourmet meal, the chance to bid on a variety of both silent and live auction items and once-in-a-lifetime animal experiences, support animal enrichment, and learn about how community support directly affects the zoo’s ability to save species. This year’s program will also include information about the Children’s Activity Area – a major, $10 M renovation to the lower part of LV Zoo that began in 2025 with an expected completion date in 2027.

Zoo enthusiasts who are unable to attend the event will also have the ability to bid remotely on the incredible, silent-auction packages generously provided by community supporters by registering at bit.ly/ZooGalaBids.

Semi-formal “Black & White Cocktail Attire” dress is encouraged.

Itinerary

• ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

o 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

• COCKTAILS & HORS D’OEUVRES

o 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

• DINNER

o 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

• PROGRAM/LIVE AUCTION

o 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm

• SILENT AUCTION

To inquire more about sponsorships and/or donations, please contact LV Zoo Director of Development Stefanie Timmins at stimmins@lvzoo.org.

LV Zoo is currently operating seven days per week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.

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About Members 1st Federal Credit Union:
Celebrating 75 years of service, Members 1st Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution with more than 600,000 members and $8 billion in assets. With its administrative headquarters in Enola, PA, Members 1st serves its members and communities through its network of nearly 60 branch locations throughout Adams, Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Lycoming, Northampton, Perry and York counties, as well as its robust digital banking and call center channels. As Members 1st honors its 75-year milestone, the organization remains committed to building stronger communities and meaningful relationships. To learn more about Members 1st, visit members1st.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

— Smart Fun —

LV ZOO TRAFFIC ALERT: GAME PRESERVE RD CLOSED STARTING MONDAY, August 25th
Please Review Below Prior to Visiting the Zoo

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Starting Monday, August 25^th Game Preserve Rd will be closed due to a PPL utility upgrade project.  This closure will last for about 3 weeks. This impacts access from Rt. 309 only. Guests arriving via Rt. 100 are not affected.

DETOUR FOR RT. 309 TRAVELERS:

Trucks/Buses (Both Directions): Use Mill Creek Rd (1.8 mi before/after Game Preserve Rd), continue 2.1 mi, turn left on Game Preserve Rd, then right into the Zoo.

 Cars Only (8’2” limit): Use Orchard Rd → Old Packhouse Rd → Ruheton Hill Rd → Game Preserve Rd, then enter Zoo. Please follow the posted detour signs.

VIA RT. 100:

Northbound: Kernsville Rd → Horseshoe Rd → Weidasville Rd → Game Preserve Rd

Southbound: Kistler Rd → Game Preserve Rd

Follow posted detour signs!

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