Maryland Zoo: Spring Zoo Lights Celebration ~ 25 Views

 Ran over to the Maryland Zoo at the end of the day to see their new Zoo Lights experience.  In a nutshell, I was utterly underwhelmed.  Somehow, I had this idea that the event would not only feature lots of silk framed interior lit animal models, but also an integrated sound system, and concessions with food and related merchandise.  To create a festive and fair-like atmosphere.

What I got was a lot of shabby animal models, no discernible food sources--the main food venue was lit up from within, but not a single person was visible and there was NO signage even suggesting that food was available--a seriously pathetic Chinese trinket booth like those in flee markets.  Additionally, once the sun set, it was dark!  There were lots of places where it was difficult to see the ground and feel safe walking.  Another issue was the shear size of the area of the zoo that the event was trying to cover.  It was too large for the available models.  Lots of spaces were dark between displays...which honestly felt creepy.  

To say I was disappointed would be generous, in spite of the fact that I was able to snap some nice photos.  That's the magic of careful framing, eh?  ...and cropping!

Best exhibit was this one that transformed the former Polar Bear habitat into a multi-species Penguin abode.

The detail on the animals was such that you could easily identify the species like these Saiga Antelopes.

Perhaps the least flattering of the frame sculptures goes to the Gorillas.  Sad.