People filed into the Santa Barbara Zoo today continuing a yearly Thanksgiving tradition.
Attendance remains limited due to purple tier COVID-19 restrictions in effect across Santa Barbara County.
The staff say that despite COVID-19 restrictions they chose to open for their seventh annual Thanksgiving.
"This year we wanted to open up to continue those family traditions," said David Velazquez, Santa Barbara Zoo Director of Business Operations.
Zoo gates opened today at 9 a.m. for members and 9:30 a.m. for the general public.
With the pandemic throwing many Thanksgiving plans for a loop, some families say this was a COVID-friendly activity to celebrate the holiday with their family.
"We're very excited to go to the zoo," said Michell Anteau of Redondo Beach. "We're not spending thanksgiving with grandpa this year so we wanted to do something else special to replace the tradition."
The Santa Barbara Zoo is open within the guidelines set by the State and County.
Here's what to know before you go:
- Buy your tickets in advance
- Face coverings are required
- Some areas are closed
- Some animals have early bedtimes (4:30 p.m.)
