News and Stories

24-ft-tall hippo ready to welcome guests with a smile   

CINCINNATI, OH (November 7, 2024) – Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s 42nd annual PNC Festival of Lights is two weeks away, but the symbolic start of the Zoo’s holiday season was put in place this morning when a giant Fiona nutcracker was set up at the Zoo’s main entrance. PNC Festival of Lights runs November 21-January 5.  

Video | Photos

“This nutcracker will greet guests throughout PNC Festival of Lights, making it a festive highlight for Fiona fans and zoo visitors alike,” said Cincinnati Zoo’s vice president of marketing and visitor experience Chad Yelton.  

Fiona fans will have fun finding hidden details on the nutcracker that are part of the famous hippo’s story.  Some of the “Easter Eggs” to look for are: 

• Six slices of watermelon on her belt (because she was born 6 weeks pre-mature and loves watermelon)  

• Camera on the belt buckle because she grew up in front of the camera  

• 29 buttons on her coat represent her birthweight of 29 pounds  

• Aquarius symbol on the buttons is a nod to her astrological sign  

• Her birth stone, garnet, is in her crown   

• Fritz, her little brother, is painted on her toenail  

All Zoo membership levels are on sale now. Get a membership today and bring your family to PNC Festival of Lights Member Preview on November 20, 2024. Use you member discount to purchase holiday items such as the new Fiona Nutcracker replica ornament, plush animals, books, games, and more!  

The Zoo opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. Members get Early Entry in the spring, summer, and fall, which allows Zoo access at 9 a.m.