Maldon Promenade Zoo Christmas Santa reindeer family event

Maldon Promenade Zoo is hosting a fun-filled Christmas event where children will complete tasks to support Santa with his dilemma.

For the first time in three years, Santa will be at the zoo with his elves.

He needs people's help because due to making so many presents for boys and girls, he is too busy to prepare gifts for animals and pets.

With the help of friendly elves, children will go on a magical journey to find Rudolph’s red nose, decorate a dog biscuit, make seed parcels for birds, pet name tags, make a wish on the Christmas wise owl wishing branch, make reindeer food, visit Mrs Claus, decorate their own reindeer and meet the reindeer on a real sleigh.

Food and drink will be available, including stone-baked pizzas and hot chocolates.

Visitors will be able to see more than 80 species at the petting zoo, in Promenade Park, after the event.

Zoo owner Craig Williams said: “After the success of the last couple of years’ Christmas event, we have only gone and done it again.

“We are pleased to confirm that Santa finally will be at the zoo this coming Christmas.

“Whilst not losing the magic of our lovely zoo animals, we have picked some very special festive friends to join the magic - our lovely reindeer.

“Santa and his very own reindeer will be appearing at the zoo this Christmas season.

“Children will be helped along the way by our magical elves and animal keepers. They will also hear the animal Christmas story and have access to our petting zoo.

“All participants will receive an early gift and a special certificate for their efforts, presented by Santa.

“Families will also get the opportunity to meet Santa’s reindeer whilst posing for photos on his sleigh.”

There are multiple dates and times available from now until Saturday, December 24.

To book, go to tinyurl.com/477ck8au.

For more information, visit facebook.com/maldonpromzoo.