See the National Zoo in a different light

Every holiday season, you think about organizing a caroling group with friends. The idea of trolling up and down the streets in the cold, decked in wool scarves and mittens, celebrating the season sounds fun. Problem is, you're not much of a singer.

With the zoo open at night these days and strewn with animal-shaped light displays, you can still get that group together (your best friend and her three kids, your mother-in-law and her best friend, your husband and kids) and not have to worry about your less than finely tuned vocals.

For the second year, the zoo opens its doors at night for ZooLights. You can see the familiar space at an unusual time of day and decked out in its winter finery: blue pandas, purple seals and a green butterfly all made of lights, and even an eagle soaring through the trees to join its mate in a nest.

Of course not all the animals are of the energy-saving, illuminated species. Catch a real snoozing orangutan or a wild deer in their off hours. The Small Mammal House, Great Ape House, Reptile Discovery Center, Think Tank and Kids' Farm are all open, which is as nice for warming up as it is for viewing animals.

There's live entertainment and surprises around every corner. This weekend, ask one of the many zoo volunteers to guide you to a performance of "A Midwinter's Tail," where you'll learn about animal during the cold months. Make sure the kids find the big snow globe with a costumed person inside; it's a great photo op.

This is an ideal activity for family and friends. On a recent evening, some parents gave their kids glow sticks, which seemed helpful in keeping track of them. Concession stands are open, too, selling cider and hot chocolate to help you keep warm. You also can munch on kettle corn.

Besides being a different way to experience the zoo, it's hard not to light up a little yourself as you walk through the cold night listening to children laughing and Frank Sinatra singing carols.

-- Moira E. McLaughlin (December 19, 2008)