Gatorland kicks off first annual holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down Christmas event

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    NEWS-GAZETTE PHOTO/BRIAN MCBRIDE
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    NEWS-GAZETTE PHOTO/BRIAN MCBRIDE
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Where else can you visit with Gator Claws riding in an airboat being pulled by alligators during the holiday season?

That’s right, Gatorland.

The animal park is premiering its first ever Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down Christmas event Dec. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20. 

The experience features holiday displays, interactive characters and holiday entertainment presented by the Gator Dans throughout the park, as well as Gatorland’s Christmas Express rolling out of the station with a brand new original holiday story for all to hear, “Bubba’s Christmas Crisis!”

And it’s included in the regular price of admission.

“Our roots are in our country corny sense of humor so we created a Christmas event, our Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down,” said Mark McHugh, president and CEO of Gatorland.

Specially themed areas for Gatorland’s Ho Ho Ho-Down Christmas event feature the Oh No Snowmen, like most Northern visitors these snowbirds have underestimated the Florida heat.  See them do their best to keep cool in the hot sun. 

There’s also the Giant Gingerbread Village Trailer Park, Gatorland style.  This Gingerbread RV Park features life size Gingerbread characters, based on Gatorland’s most popular personalities. And don’t miss Gator Claws, Santa Claus for all the gators at Gatorland. Plus Gatorland’s merry elves will be strolling around the park.

“We are so excited to be presenting our very first holiday event this year.  It’s another great way for us to offer new experiences for people to come out and have fun with us in a very safe environment,” said McHugh.

Social Distancing Skunk Ape will also be on hand, along with social distancing and cleaning protocol all around the park.  Facial coverings required for admission.  Holiday food items will be available for purchase.

The holiday theme was born from the success of Gatorland’s Ghost, Gators and Goblins Halloween event in October, McHugh said.

“We make fun of ourselves, we have a good time,” he added.

Gatorland annual pass holders

Gatorland annual pass holders receive 20 percent off merchandise all year round. For the first time this year, Gatorland will be offering free shipping with the purchase of $50 or more online through its website. The Gatorland Gift Shop is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 pm. Admission to the park is not required to visit the gift shop.

  For more Gatorland information, visit us online at www.gatorland.com or call 800-393-JAWS.