The holiday season kicked into full force Tuesday night with Happy Holidaze and the Emporia Police Benefit Association Toy Drive at the David Traylor Zoo.
This year’s flip of the switch saw nearly 35,000 feet of lights, 97 percent of which were LEDs, turned on according to Zoo Director Brenda Young who noted those numbers are significantly higher than just a few years ago and made possible in part by the generosity of the Emporia Friends of the Zoo.
This year, Dr. Michael Lloyd and his six grandchildren handled the official switch-flipping duties. Dr. Lloyd says Tuesday was a special moment for the family who have been longtime supporters and patrons of the zoo.
Along with the official turning of the lights at the zoo, The Emporia Police Benefit Association had its third annual toy drive, collecting brand-new, unwrapped toys, gift cards and other items for children needing something special for the holidays. Emporia Police Cpt. Lisa Hayes says EPD wants to do all it can to make sure everyone has a happy holiday.
This was the fourth annual EPBA toy drive in conjunction with Happy Holidaze and Cpt. Hayes noted that the donations continue to increase each year.
All gifts, including financial donations, are split between Saint Francis Ministries and TFI Family Services.
Attendees also enjoyed music from the Emporia High Chorale, got hot chocolate, took part in different games, and made Christmas cards for local senior care homes through the Emporia High FFA.
The zoo’s lights will remain on in the evenings through the remainder of the calendar year with the zoo extending some of its hours in the coming weeks so more patrons can enjoy them according to Young.
Click here for a YouTube Short of Happy Holidaze
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
