Showing posts with label Bronx Zoo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bronx Zoo. Show all posts

Wednesday, December 25, 2019

{#WordlessWednesday} Holiday Lights at the @BronxZoo are a must see this Christmas season #holidaylights #bronxzoo #MerryChristmas

Merry Christmas Everyone!

illuminated Christmas Tree at Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019, Holidays, Christmas Tree, Holidays in New York City, NYC Landmarks, LED Light Show
I bring you a Special Christmas Edition  #WordlessWednesday

After a 12 year hiatus, Holiday Lights returns to Bronx Zoo in New York City! Running from November 29 - December 31st as well as January 3-5 (they are not open today though! But you should head over there tomorrow if you haven't seen it already!) I can't even describe how happy I am that the Holiday of Lights is back, I have visited the Festival every year since it's inception and was so sad when it went away in 2007. I would visit every year with my mom. Our tradition is back, I hope these photos put the "Ho, Ho, Ho!" in your holidays and the holly in your jolly!

Stay tuned for a special video at the end!

Ice Carver at Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: One of my favorite stops is the Ice Carving Station. It always amazes me how much painstaking detail goes into making these unique ice sculptures.

Ice Sculpture at Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019, Ice Sculpture, Ice Carving, Bronx Zoo, Holiday of Lights, Christmas Light Festival
Above: I enjoy watching ice carvers, they take this huge block of ice and turn it into something beautiful knowing full well it won't last long. I have always wanted to try my hand at it. I would probably carve wine glasses and grapes! And of course, BUTTERFLIES

Christmas Carolers Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019, Carolers, Caroling
Above: Nothing gets you in the holiday spirits more than Christmas Carols - thankfully the Zoo thought of EVERYTHING!

Underwater Fantasy Illuminated Sea Creatures Christmas Carolers Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: This underwater fantasy was one of my favorite displays. Long time readers know I live for being at the Beach/Ocean. It's where I feel the most peace. And getting a chance to interact with dolphins is one of my favorite things to do when I travel, second only to horseback riding. Press this one to make it bigger, it's worth it. The RAW file to this is my current screen saver!

Illuminated Dolphin Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: I had to get a better angle for the Dolphin. I wanted the coral so I got a bit of the rope divider in the shot. I wish people could be cool so the dividers weren't necessary, this would have looked so much more real without the ropes.

Illuminated Giraffes Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: Little known fact about me, I LOVE all things Giraffe. I have always been fascinated by them. The real Giraffes at the Zoo are always one of my must see stops!

Illuminated Antelope Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: Don't forget you press the photos to make them larger. I took the shot of a group of these, but for some reason I opted to post the solo Antelope. There was just something more expressive about this photo to me.

Illuminated Crocodile Alligator Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: I hope he isn't planning to eat those Parrots as a late night snack! LOL

Illuminated Gorillas Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: It was so much fun seeing how all the kids faces lit up at each display, aren't these Gorillas cool?

Illuminated Herd of Elephants Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: Herd of Elephants! See the cute baby in the center?

Illuminated Pride of Lions Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019 NEW
Above: Pride of Lions (I call this 'new school' holiday of lights Lions, look at the photo below to see why)

Illuminated Pride of Lions Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019 OLD
Above: This is the 'Old School' pride of 'light lions' - these are the ones I remember when I used to go before, I had fun finding some of my old favorites still on display!

Illuminated Lemurs Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: Are those Lemurs I spot in the Bamboo?

Illuminated Parrots Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: These Parrots are trying to get away from that Tiger on the lower left!

Illuminated Penguins Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: These penguins are ready for the festivities!

Illuminated Rhinocerus Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: I spot Rhinocerus!

Illuminated Tiger and Rhino Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019, Tiger, Rhinocerus
Above: Hey Rhinos! You might want to run in the opposite direction of this hungry looking Tiger!

Illuminated Reindeer Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019, Reeinders
Above: These make me want to start singing Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer!

Illuminated Horse Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019, Horse, Horses
Above: This horse makes me super happy!

Illuminated Butterflies Bronx Zoo Holiday of Lights 2019
Above: And of course I had to end the photos with the illuminated Butterflies. (These were there when I used to visit in the past and I was so happy to see they kept them) I mean my blog is called Ascending Butterfly, there was no way I would have missed this shot.

Below: Press Play (you might want to watch "Full Screen" for maximum effect and enjoy the Christmas Tree Light Show with a nice mug of hot chocolate or coffee. Volume on, the light show syncs up to holiday music, ENJOY!




MY TAKE:

I couldn't quite edit out all the exuberant children around me, but I think hearing real families taking it in is part of the charm. (Note: None of the kids you hear are mine. I do not. Repeat. I do not have children). I am just a big kid at heart, I still love going to the Zoo.

I couldn't be happier to have one of my favorite holiday traditions return to The Bronx Zoo. The holiday lights will fill your heart with cheer and joy and you should definitely make it a point to see it.

I also normally attend the Train Show at New York Botanical Garden (The Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Garden are very close by, but in my opinion I would do two separate days to make a day of each one and be sure you don't miss anything.) Since I wasn't able to attend this year's show, I will link you to coverage of a previous Train Show.

The New York Botanical Garden Train Show: https://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2016/01/last-chance-for-nybg-holiday-train-show.html (this is 2015's Train Show as it has the most pictures and my most recent coverage included a giveaway which is of course closed, I figured using an older one that did not have a giveaway attached would cause the least confusion.)

Readers: Do you take in a Light Show during the Holidays? It doesn't always have to be a special trip, even a walk around the neighborhood to see the Christmas lights count! Did Santa treat you nice today?

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FTC Disclosure:  This is NOT a compensated Post, tickets to the show were provided to Ascending Butterfly's Editorial Team for Editorial Consideration. ALL opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. My love for my favorite Bronx Based NYC landmarks is true and strong and genuine! #ProudBronxite

Friday, October 19, 2012

Things to do with the little ones this weekend: Boo at the Zoo! and Ascarium! Score some fun freebies too!



Boo at the Zoo!

As part of the month long Boo at the Zoo  festivities at New York's famous Bronx Zoo, they are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Goosebumps - Scholastic’s bestselling series by fright-master R.L. Stine. This weekend, October 20th and 21st, the first 1,000 kids aged 14 and under to arrive at the zoo will get a FREE copy of a Goosebumps book from Scholastic. 




Don't forget if you Buy 4 or more tickets you will receive an exclusive, limited-edition Boo at the Zoo Snake Hat Free when you visit during Boo at the Zoo, weekends now through October 28th. Children 12 and under wearing a Halloween costume will receive free general admission with one paid adult general admission! SCORE!



 

Thrills, Chills and Cute Animals too!


New York Aquarium 'Ascarium'



And don't forget to check out the New York Aquarium, also known as the 'Ascarium' for Halloween, Get ready for spooktacular fun at the Aquarium’s annual Halloween Celebration! This season’s Ascarium is a swashbuckling pirate adventure with nautical and pirate-themed activities for aquarium-goers of all ages. You and your little ones can journey through the Haunted Seafari Adventure, experience spooky pirate tales, enjoy sea shanty musical performances and gypsy dancers, and play pirate games of skill. 

Don’t miss the special Halloween 4-D feature, The Curse of Skull Rockafter collecting treats and venturing into the Haunted Seafari!

And don't forget, kids in costume get in for free. Each child (ages 3-12; children under 3 are free) in costume will receive a free child's general admission with the purchase of one full-priced adult general admission ticket. Limit two per family, may not be combined with any other offer.

Both the Zoo and Aquarium will be offering 'Treat Stations' making your visit to each that much sweeter!


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Disclaimer: Ascending Butterfly is participating in a sponsored ambassador program from the Bronx Zoo/NY Aquarium. As a part of this program we have received paid advertising compensation, a premium family membership and merchandise for placement of digital advertisements and specific postings related to programming. However all opinions are 100% my own. And I have been visiting this particular zoo since my childhood!

Sunday, October 7, 2012

BOO AT THE ZOO! - Prepare for some family #Halloween themed fun @TheBronxZoo


http://www.bronxzoo.com/



My family loved finding unique ways to keep us all entertained and oftentimes wanted an alternative to throwing a party in the house. Let's face it children's parties especially can get super messy, and who has time for that?

Looking to do something fun with the kiddos this Halloween? Why not try BOO AT THE ZOO? Would you be able to host a party at home that included:

A Creepy Hollows HayRide
A Haunted Mansion
Creature Chats
Hay Maze
Children's Theater

Costume Parade

Magic Shows
Pumpkin Carving
Creepy Crafts Workshops
Treat Stations
Live Music
And oh so cute Animals!

I don't know about you, but I'd rather let the Zoo do all the hard work! Buy 4 or more tickets and receive an exclusive, limited-edition Boo at the Zoo Snake Hat Free when you visit during Boo at the Zoo, weekends now through October 28th. Children 12 and under wearing a Halloween costume will receive free general admission with one paid adult general admission. With loads of free scores and great deals, what's not to love?  It's all Treats and No Tricks this Halloween!

So Butterfly, will it be TRICK or TREAT this year?

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Disclaimer: Ascending Butterfly is participating in a sponsored ambassador program from the Bronx Zoo/NY Aquarium. As a part of this program we have received paid advertising compensation, a premium family membership and merchandise for placement of digital advertisements and specific postings related to programming. However all opinions are 100% my own. And I have been visiting this particular zoo since my childhood!

Monday, July 30, 2012

NYC Summer Fun! My Top 10 list of Family Friendly New York City Things To Do! {Photos}

With a ton of bloggers about to descend upon Manhattan for the BlogHer Conference (where I will be Live Blogging), I know invariably some will be bringing family and many of you extending your stay for a few days to take in all the family friendly sites New York City has to offer!

My Top Ten Family Friendly Fun things to do in New York City include:



1) OK so I'm a bit biased here and will start with the fact that there are three major NYC family friendly landmarks in my 'backyard' - Take in a game at Yankee Stadium. Summer is synonymous with Yankee Games for most New Yorkers and the stadium is just a train ride away no matter where in the city you may find yourself.



2) A little more bias here, and even closer to my home is The Bronx Zoo, check out this link for a major discount on tickets! Yes I am a Wildlife Conservation Society Blogger Brand Ambassador, but I have been visiting the zoo since I was a kid, and the tradition continues today with my nieces and nephews. Our summer isn't complete until we have visited the zoo, there is always something new going on there!

The New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, New York


3) Also near me is the New York Botanical Gardens. The Gardens are as fun and as family friendly as it gets, your prettiest photos are going to come from here!

Central Park, New York City


4) Central Park and the Central Park Zoo - It would be difficult to do the park in one day as there is so much to do and see, but the Central Park Zoo is a must visit with your family.

Coney Island, Brooklyn New York


5) Coney Island - The amusement park and beach are a NYC landmark. This is just plain fun.

Rye Playland, Rye New York


6) Rye Playland - Another New York Amusement Park, it's a bit further out but not difficult to reach.

The New York Aquarium, Brooklyn, New York


7) The New York Aquarium - Another one of my favorite annual summer things to do, it's family friendly and kids love watching the animal feedings!

View of Lady Liberty from Smooth Jazz Cruise, photo used WITH permission

Staten Island Ferry, New York City


8) Statue of Liberty - There are tons of way to see her, but us locals still recommend seeing her from the Staten Island Ferry! I got to see her last year from the Smooth Jazz Cruise and had a fantastic time!

Museum of Natural History, New York City


9) The Museum of Natural History - Not that any of the museums in 'museum mile' should be missed, but this one is hands down the most family fun of all them all.

Empire State Building, New York City


10) Empire State Building - The view of NYC from the Empire State Building is bar none, that's why it's been in numerous movies and tv shows throughout the years. Just please be prepared that there is a security line to contend with and a long ride to the top. Only you know how well your child handles long lines and LOTS of people. and depending on their age, they might not find all that work to get to the top is worth it.

Any bloggers coming in that need additional recos, please feel free to comment here!

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, I am a Britax Latina Advisory Board Member and Blogger. I am also a Bronx Zoo/Wildlife Conservation Society Blog Ambassador. All opinions are 100% my own.

Saturday, June 16, 2012

What's New at the Zoo? Check out this weekend's happenings at the New York Bronx Zoo!



LeVar Burton will be at the Bronx Zoo this weekend for a sneak peek of the new Reading Rainbow app and special book reading! This is a great opportunity to see LeVar and get a sneak peek at the new Reading Rainbow app for the next generation “digital” Reading Rainbow kids. My niece and nephew love Reading Rainbow, and I'm a total  nerdie Star Trek fan, so we may have to all head to the zoo this weekend and catch story time at Asia Plaza in the Bronx Zoo this weekend. It's so super cool to have access to one of the city's better known landmarks practically in my backyard!



I have to admit the role I most associate with Mr. Burton is as Geordi La Forge from the Star Trek: The Next Generation, television series. Although one of his first claims to fame was for his acting in the television mini-series Roots (the role landed him an Emmy). He has also written a book called The Aftermath.

I could definitely go on and on about his achievements throughout his amazing career, but it's his work for Reading Rainbow that will be featured this week at the Reading Rainbow Sneak peek, and if you are looking for something fun AND educational to do with the kiddos this weekend, this would be my pick! LeVar is very personable and has a great rapport with children.



And my digital loving butterflies already know that You can also save 10% when you buy tickets online: http://www.bronxzoo.com/ticket-discount/ 



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Disclaimer: Ascending Butterfly is participating in a sponsored ambassador program from the Bronx Zoo/NY Aquarium. As a part of this program we have received paid advertising compensation, a premium family membership and merchandise for placement of digital advertisements and specific postings related to programming.