Charles Paddock Zoo is a beautiful fall destination for families, featuring an exciting array of animals and activities. As Fall approaches, the zoo hosts many fun-filled events that will make any holiday feel like a day at the fair!
ATASCADERO — ATASCADERO — ATASCADERO — On Saturday, Dec. 18, local animal enthusiasts of all ages flocked to Charles Paddock Zoo for the Zoo’s 14th annual Holiday Magic event. Spectators may witness the animals tear into their beautifully wrapped Christmas presents presented by the community from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
“For us [the Zoo], this is a wonderful occasion.” It’s an opportunity for the [Zoo] keepers to think outside the box a little bit. Alan Baker, Director of the Charles Paddock Zoo, commented, “Sometimes they come up with some really wild ideas for the animals’ gifts.”
Holiday Magic is a popular day at Charles Paddock Zoo, with over 1,000 visitors expected. That’s hardly surprising, given that the Zoo’s animals are normally fed away from exhibits or in areas where it’s difficult for visitors to see them eat. However, during the Holiday Magic event, you’ll be given a detailed itinerary so you know when each of the animals will get their gifts.
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“We have it planned that the tiger will get his gift at a certain moment. He usually ends up pulling everything up. So it’s a bit more impressive than [him] just strolling over and eating something,” Baker said.
As they delved into their presents supplied by the public and members of Charles Paddock Zoo, the animals were as ecstatic as the humans watching.
“What we do is create a wishlist on our website,” Baker said, “and individuals may opt to buy a present if they like.” “We usually post that list [for Holiday Magic] shortly after our Halloween event,” she says. However, we have a wishlist for little extras that is posted [all] year. Often, they’re one-of-a-kind items. People may even contribute directly to the animal [of their choice] if they like.”
Even if they aren’t on the agenda for the day, every animal at the Zoo gets given a gift or a tasty food.
“Today, everyone will get something wonderful.” If it’s a Dart Frog, though, it may simply be something extra. Nobody would notice, but the Dart Frog would enjoy it,” Baker added, laughing.
While the focus of the event is on the Zoo’s animals, there are other amazing things to see and do while you’re there. There will even be an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus. There was a long queue of eager children waiting to greet them!
“This is one of those things where we like to be able to provide them something unique.” Many of the folks who are here today are members of our organization. That’s a fantastic Christmas present. This time of year, we sell a lot of them [memberships]. When you become a zoo member, you pay a single fee and get unlimited access to the zoo. As a result, it’s a fantastic deal,” Baker remarked.
Except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, the Charles Paddock Zoo is open all year. Visit charlespaddockzoo.org to view the year-round animal wishlist, buy a membership, or learn more.
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