Wild Lights at Miller Park Zoo

Bloomington, Illinois

People playing in the snow and admiring the lights. Our series of wintertime client success stories continues this week with our former client and nearby neighbor to the west, Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington, Illinois. This regional family destination has harnessed the charm and metaphorical warmth of holiday lights to draw people to their largely outdoor site even in frigid winter weather. The zoo’s Business Manager Anthony Nelson shares more about their “Wild Lights” program:

1. Please describe what “Wild Lights” is like and who attends.

We light up the Zoo with lights, inflatables, and luminaries. People walk the zoo at night, meet local vendors, do face painting, games, crafts, and they can meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

2. Why do you think this program has been so successful in drawing visitors to your site?

It is unique—not something you can do just anywhere. People can bundle up and walk the zoo. Cold temperature doesn’t keep them away, and there are plenty of spots to step inside and warm up.

Walking along enjoying the night. 3. Is there anything special you have to do to prepare for this program? And/or anything that you simply cannot fully prepare for?

It takes a good two weeks before the event to hang lights and place inflatables. We also have a team of 10-15 that gets the luminaries places and lit before the event starts.

4. What advice would you give to colleagues in your field who are struggling to boost winter traffic to their sites?

Try something different. People will brave the weather if you can pique their interest.

Children enjoying snacks at Wild Lights at Miller Park Zoo! 5. What is your favorite thing to experience at your site during the winter?

I love seeing the kids walk the zoo with a smile on their face. Watching the kids line up to meet Santa, get their face painted, or do a craft is worth the time that goes into it.

6. What is the best compliment you have heard from a visitor about their experience at your site during the winter?

A grandparent who brought their whole family (14 people) and told us it was “worth every penny. The zoo was beautiful, and the kids absolutely loved it. You have created life-long zoo fans with this event.” They bought a grandparent membership that night.