We sat down with Cynthia McCarvel, Strategic Partnerships Director at the Topeka Zoo, to unpack how Zoo Lights grew from a winter idea into a citywide tradition. From 28 miles of LEDs to volunteer crews, soundscapes, igloos, and access programs, we trace the people and plans behind the glow.
• role of strategic partnerships and community ties
• why a small zoo is a strength for families
• memberships and reciprocal discounts driving value
• origins, growth, and yearly redesign of Zoo Lights
• scope and logistics of power, LEDs, and frames
• corporate and school volunteers wrapping trees and testing lights
• in-kind support from electricians, lifts, and fabricators
• themed music for holidays around the world
• igloos, Santa’s Forest, and photo ops that invite sharing
• promotions including Wild Wednesdays and Museums for All
• rentals and concierge service for private nights
• challenges like reindeer transport and permits
• ticket prices, dates, and how to visit
Everyone, go visit the Topeka Zoo Lights!
________________________________________
0:00 - Meet Cynthia And Her Role
1:04 - How Sponsorships Power The Zoo
3:30 - Why A Small Zoo Works Big
5:15 - Membership Value And Regional Draw
5:48 - Zoo Lights Origins And Impact
8:10 - Community Partners And Igloos
10:20 - The Scale Of The Lights
12:05 - Power, Logistics, And Setup
14:05 - Volunteers, Lifts, And Design Teams
16:00 - Sound, Music, And Global Theme
17:50 - Business Rentals And Annual Cycle
19:20 - Planning Ahead And Topping Last Year
21:00 - What’s Worked, What’s Hard: Reindeer
22:40 - Santa’s Forest And Photo Ops
25:10 - Social Buzz, Tunnels, And Stats
26:40 - Local Favorites And Rapid Fire
28:30 - Tickets, Access, And Promotions
30:00 - Favorite Displays And Closing Invite
_________________________________________
Beyond the Podcast: 🎙️
Be sure to follow our Topeka Insider Socials below and check out our website for additional stories and articles pertaining to Topeka, KS
Website -- https://topekainsider.com/
Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/topekainsider
Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/topekainsider/
Follow Your Hosts: 📱
Follow both Justin & Jon on their personal socials to get connected. They would love to connect and answer any questions about the show or their day to day.
Jon Griffith's Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/thejongriffith/
Justin Armbruster's Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/armbruster_jd
For Any Inquiries, please DM @TopekaInsider on Instagram!
