Virginia Zoo to host first ever Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market

NORFOLK, VA - The Virginia Zoo is thrilled to announce its first ever Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market will take place on Saturday, December 7 from 11:00am - 3:00 pm. This festive market will feature over 40 local vendors, live music by Doorway Singers' strolling carolers, animal ambassador pop up encounters, free photos with Santa, and more. Partnered with the Norfolk Animal Care Center (NACC) and Coca-Cola, the Zoo is eager to spread joy to the Hampton Roads community, both human and animal alike.

The day will be full of fun for the whole family, from the most talented gift-givers to the grinches and scrooges. All guests can expect to enjoy a merry midday with their loved ones, celebrating the most wonderful time of year alongside their favorite animals.

In the spirit of giving back to the Hampton Roads community, the Virginia Zoo is offering one free admission to each guest who gifts qualifying donations to the NACC's Waggin' Wheels mobile unit located in front of the Zoo on Saturday, December 7 and Saturday, December 21. Help local shelter animals have a happy howl-iday season by bringing a five pound bag or larger of dry pet food (any brand, flavor, or type of animal) or three new items from the NACC donation list. Other acceptable donations include blankets, comforters, towels, washcloths, toys, dog collars, dog harnesses, dog leashes, treats, or other small animal donation supplies. The NACC's full acceptable donation list can be found on the Virginia Zoo's website in the Holiday Market's event listing.

Coca-Cola will also drive magical holiday moments to the Zoo aboard their Coca-Cola® Caravan, with sample soda tastings, free photos with Santa, and special merch available to purchase. This partner is also generously gifting a free festive ornament to the first 300 guests that enter the Zoo on December 7th. Additionally, every person visiting the event will be entered into a raffle to win a 30-inch Coca-Cola polar bear plush.

Local food and beverage vendors Flippin' Hangry, Instrumental Coffee, and Waters Edge Winery will also be in attendance with refreshments available for an additional cost.

The Virginia Zoo's Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market is included with paid general admission or Zoo membership on December 7. Find tickets, the NACC's full acceptable donation list, and the full vendor list on the Zoo's website at virginiazoo.org/event/holiday-market/. Please note the Virginia Zoo will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

About the Virginia Zoo

The Virginia Zoo, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is home to more than 700 exceptional animals representing over 150 fascinating species. Founded in 1901 and residing on 53 beautifully landscaped acres, the Virginia Zoo has demonstrated a commitment to saving and protecting the world's wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world. The Virginia Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is recognized as a global leader in education, recreation, science, wildlife conservation, and animal care and welfare. For more than a century, the Zoo has connected adults, families and school children with the natural world and its wildlife.

To learn more, visit www.virginiazoo.org.