Steve Brennan and his wife Shirley, both long-time Philadelphia Zoo members, brought their 5- year-old grandson, Reece Henry, to see Santa and enjoy the festivities--after he finishes his sandwich of course.

Children and their families were able to find a warm place to spend a chilly December Saturday –at the Philadelphia Zoo inside the Tree House. There, they were entertained with solo and group performances that were accompanied by the sounds of DJ Smooth Rod and DJ Snoop from Shadow Trax.

It was the first of two weekend Christmas parties, with Santa as the guest of honor. But, while the kids waited they found much to do at several staffed tables, including coloring and drawing — all part of the Shadow Trax Media Arts Program.

The Paton and Schaible families, from Northeast Philly, were enjoying the Shadow Trax Models as they performed at the Philadelphia Zoo's Christmas party in December. One family member proudly shows off one of his creations to his mom.

*Note: these photos were scheduled to run before Christmas, but got caught up in a system error. Better late than never, right?