Better Than Fruitcake

What’s the best thing about Christmas? Is it the family gatherings or the roast meats? Is it the presents or that it’s Jesus’ birthday? God forgive us, but no. Friends, it’s the Christmas lights. Those wonderful glowing buds of hope that light our way in the darkness of winter and...

By Liz Tracy

December 15, 2011

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What’s the best thing about Christmas? Is it the family gatherings or the roast meats? Is it the presents or that it’s Jesus’ birthday? God forgive us, but no. Friends, it’s the Christmas lights. Those wonderful glowing buds of hope that light our way in the darkness of winter and make us feel 5 years old again. Zoo Miami (12400 SW 152nd St., Miami) understands your holiday needs. With “Zoo Lights,” children of every age — that means you too, Grandma — will enjoy eight nights of animal-shaped lights. And each weekend this month during regular zoo hours, animals open their own holiday gifts and eat them. The great Indian hornbills rip through papier-mâché orbs to get at meaty treats. It’s incredible and educational. “Zoo Lights” takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. through December 23. Tickets cost $5 plus tax and include 3-D glasses. Or upgrade to the Zoo Lights Package and also receive hot chocolate, cookies, a photo with Santa, and a carousel ride. Call 305-251-0400, ext. 84941, or visit zoomiami.org.
Dec. 18-23, 7-10 p.m., 2011

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Liz has her master’s degree in religion from Florida State University. She has since written for publications and outlets such as Miami New Times, Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, Ocean Drive, the Huffington Post, NBC Miami, Time Out Miami, Insomniac, the Daily Dot, and the Atlantic. Liz spent three years as New Times Broward-Palm Beach’s music editor, was the weekend news editor at Inverse, and is currently the managing editor at Tom Tom Magazine.

Contact: Liz Tracy

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Twitter: @theliz4eva