A stiff, chilly wind Tuesday evening did little to keep families away from Holidaze at the Zoo and Toy Drive, an annual celebration hosted by the Emporia Police Benefit Association, David Traylor Zoo and Hetlinger Developmental Services.

The event offered activities for all ages, including performances by the Emporia Middle School and Emporia High School music programs, hot chocolate, snacks, photos with Santa Claus and a walk through the zoo’s holiday light displays.

"I thought the music was beautiful," Cheryl Davis, of Emporia said. "The students did a fantastic job and it was a wonderful start to the holiday season."

Despite the cold, visitors filled the pathways to take in the festive atmosphere. Christmas lights shimmered across the pond while carols echoed through the zoo grounds,

See Full Page