Several businesses and industries around the state of Minnesota have been hit hard by COVID-19. In an effort to keep the Minnesota Zoo an option for families during the pandemic, they will be a huge drive-thru illuminated animal display at the beginning of December.

Nature Illuminated officially kicks off Thursday, December 3 and goes through Sunday, January 17. You'll be able to see giant animal art that's 'larger-than-life. The animals on display aren't live animals.

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Artists have used their creative abilities to recreate replicas of endangered animals. The exhibit features animals from the frozen north, deep in the ocean, tropical rainforest, the plains, woods and animals that dwell in Minnesota. The animals are all on display throughout a 3/4 mile long course. You'll be able to learn about them by tuning your radio to the audio tour.

You won't have to leave the car. Forget dressing up in layers and freezing your tail feathers off. Crank up your car heater and get ready to learn about endangered animals. The zoo will also be sharing ways they're taking action to help save our planet's wildlife.

The display runs Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. The light display will be closed on Christmas Eve, January 4, 5, 11 and 12. They'll feature extended hours on New Year's Eve.

Sunday through Thursday tickets for non-members are $50 per car load and $25 for members. Friday through Saturday tickets for non-members are $60 per car and $35 per car for members. Spots are limited and you must reserve your tickets online.

There are accessible portable restrooms that'll be available to use at the entrance of the route. Food will not be available...so pack your own snacks!

 

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