The Alternative Press

Essex County's Turtle Back Zoo offers a look at more than 100 different species of native and exotic animals from five different continents, and many exciting attractions and exhibits are constantly being added. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. announced a variety of exciting programs being offered at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo during the month of November that will teach visitors about the many different animals at the Zoo.

"Essex County Turtle Back Zoo is an exciting, family-friendly environment. Our exotic animals captivate our visitors and our playground, train ride and the carousel provide additional entertaining activities to enjoy," DiVincenzo said. "The Zoo is a valuable asset to our community and we are proud to offer an exciting attraction that is teaching children and families to have an appreciation for animals as well as protecting and preserving exotic and endangered species," he added.

Events scheduled for November are as follows:

"Night Moves" will take participants on a guided tour through Essex County Turtle Back Zoo during the evening to meet the creatures of the night! Bring a flash light for the full effect! Cost is $4 for adults and $3 for children. Pre-registration is required. Please call 973-731-5800.

Night Moves will be held as follows:

Date: Friday, November 7, 2008

Time: 7 p.m.

Place: Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ

"Essex County/Prudential Holiday Lights Spectacular" will turn Turtle Back Zoo into a Winter Wonderland, with 50 extraordinary seasonal lighting exhibits, holiday music and entertainment. Participants can stroll the landscaped paths of the Zoo and admire the illuminated images of everything from toy soldiers to dancing penguins. Cost is $3 for Children and $7 for Adults. Holiday Light Spectacular is sponsored by Prudential Financial, Verizon, Covanta and PSE&G. For more information call 973-731-5800.

"Essex County/Prudential Holiday Lights Spectacular" will be held as follows:

Date: November 28, 2008 to January 4, 2009

Time: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Place: Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ

Holiday Lights Spectacular will be closed December 1, 2, 3, 4, 24 & 25, 2008 and January 1, 2009.

From November to March, Turtle Back Zoo is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular admission is $3 for children and senior citizens, $7 for adults and free for children under 2 years. For additional information, please call 973-731-5800.

The Essex County Park System was created in 1895 and is the first county park system established in the United States. The Park System consists of more than 6,000 acres and has 18 parks, five reservations, an environmental center, a zoo, ice skating rink, roller skating rink, three public golf courses, golf driving range, three off-leash dog facilities and a castle. Turtle Back Zoo is located in Essex County's South Mountain Reservation and was opened to the public in 1963.