
It’s been a busy week at ZooMontana for yours truly. I started my holiday shopping and gathered supplies for my famous sweet potato casserole. The other animals and I welcomed new bobcats to our home at the zoo, too!
I’ve had a lot on my plate, and I’m looking forward to having a lot on my plate this Thanksgiving, but I can’t forget about a special occasion that will start soon. Holiday Nights are back!
Once again, ZooMontana will transform into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights (more than 15 million of them, I’m told), special events, and all of the hot cocoa I could ask for.
This year, I’ve invited everyone on my “nice” list to join me in a s’mores tent, and I’m looking forward to a few specific evenings, as well:

- Opening Night on November 28: Holiday Nights kick off this year on November 28th. I’m going to be first in line!
- Write Letters to Santa Night on December 6: I’ve already written my letter to Santa this year, but I’ll be around to help others.
- Wizarding World Night on December 7: My friends at Visit Billings are sponsoring this night! I’m excited to see them, but I don’t really understand the occasion. Somebody said something about a “hairy otter” and called me a “hufflepuff.” Whatever that means…
- Grinch Night on December 14: I’ve been told to steer clear of the Grinch a few times, but I think he gets a bad wrap. I’ve got a soft spot for characters who are furry and sarcastic.
- “Twas the Night Before” on December 23: Why am I excited for this night? Two words: DRONE SHOW!!!
- New Year’s Eve (Closing Night) on December 31: This year’s Holiday Nights wrap up on New Year’s Eve—I can’t think of a better way to ring in the new year!

You can check out the full schedule here, and I hope you’ll visit the zoo to celebrate the holidays in the weeks ahead. Remember to dress warm!
Sincerely,
Winston Jeffrey Hoffman
