David Traylor Zoo lights up with Happy Holidaze, Emporia Police Benefit Association’s annual toy drive

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.

The evening’s biggest festivity brought several hundred people to the zoo for the ceremonial switch to turn on better than 23,000 feet — or almost 4.5 miles — of Christmas lights.

David Traylor Zoo Director Lisa Keith says the zoo is working toward a conservation mission for their lighting display.

Keith says the event is a tradition for families to attend every year and is even passed down to the next generation.

Rhett Williams, Callen Williams, and Beckett Ballenger were this year’s official light switch flippers. Rhett’s father Jason Williams says his family has been long-time contributors to the zoo.

Rhett Williams was excited to flip the switch and was asked what he wanted for Christmas.

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 Investigator Alec Ford says the toy drive has become a competition within the department.

All gifts, including financial donations, are split between Saint Francis Ministries and TFI Family Services. Ford says the Emporia Police Benefit Association wants to get involved in the community with face-to-face interaction.

Attendees also enjoyed music from the Emporia High Chorale, got hot chocolate, take part in different games, and made Christmas cards for local senior care homes through the Emporia High FFA.