CLEVELAND — The holiday activities were in full swing Saturday night at the North Georgia Zoo.

More than 100 people toured the grounds at night to catch a glimpse of over 50 species of animals, including water buffalo, kangaroos and camels. The annual event, known as the Holiday Celebration under the Stars, draws many families.

"We have one of the earliest Christmas events," zoo owner Hope Bennett said. "It's really the perfect time to have it, after Thanksgiving. Families are around, and it puts people in a good holiday mood."

Children excitedly hopped aboard a hayride as they were led through the park by an experienced animal guide. Nancy Foran, who brought her daughter, Alex, said her group was asked to make a howling noise before the tour set off, which drew a chorus of gasps from the crowd.

"The wolves howled back. It was really cool," she said.

After the tour, people picked up a cup of hot cider and stood by a campfire. Nearby, a live nativity included sheep, goats and a llama nestled in the hay.

Alex Foran, 12, said she was impressed with some of the nocturnal animals, such as the bearcat. The mammal is a native of South Asia and is part of the mongoose family.

"It had a strange smell, kind of like Fritos," Foran said. "Some of these animals I've never even heard of."

The zoo staff invited the children to pet a few of the trained animals. Ten-year-old Carmela Asor said she was drawn to the reptiles, such as the Burmese python and a baby crocodile.

"It was really fat," she said of the crocodile.

The North Georgia Zoo, located on 30 acres, is part of the Paradise Valley Farm, a breeding facility for many rare breed and miniature livestock. Bennett said there were also a few famous animals for the crowds to see, such as a 2,000-pound buffalo that has appeared on the Rachel Ray show.

"They were doing an animal episode and (the buffalo) rode in an elevator to the studio," Bennett said.

Bennett said this was the zoo's second year to offer a holiday-inspired event. Each December, the farm provides animals to local churches for live nativities.

"We decided we wanted to do something here, too," Bennett said. "We have it all right here."

As well as animal activities, the event featured caroling and a marshmallow roast.

Bennett said her favorite part of the event was having her 3-month-old daughter in attendance.

"This is her first event and I'm excited that she'll get to grow up in this environment. She's a lucky girl," Bennett said.