Most of our friends stay at the swamp because let’s be honest – who wouldn’t want to? This just means we get extra quality time with them. From Christmas carols and movies to sleeping and more sleeping, our alligators sure do have a great time around the holidays. 

While most alligators don’t eat much during the winter months, sometimes they can’t resist a Christmas cookie or some eggnog (Pickles especially can get a little rowdy)! At Alligator Alley, we cherish the slower months to spend quality time with our alligators before things really pick up again in the spring. 

The highlight of the holiday season is when Pickles dresses up in his Santa Claus costume and gives gifts to all his scaly friends. Last year, he got everyone their very own Santa hat. We are looking forward to what he’ll come up with this year!

We hope everyone has a happy holidays! In case you don’t already know, we will be closed from November 28 to December 22. We will reopen December 22 and 23 but are closed December 24 and 25. We will open again December 26 – 30 and will close at 2 p.m. on December 31. For more information, view our winter hours and visit our Instagram and Facebook pages.  

For the lucky few that stay here at the swamp for the holidays, we spend extra special quality time with them. When we’re not watching “How the alligator stole Christmas,” we’re singing our very own Christmas carols, loud and proud for all to hear. A favorite of ours is “I saw Colonel kissing Santa Claus” and “Pickles, the Green-Nailed Alligator.”

Although the alligators typically don’t eat during the winter, they sometimes can’t help themselves when it comes to sugar cookies and eggnog (Captain Crunch gets especially rowdy!). We use the couple days we have as a small group as a chance to really connect with each other on a deeper level and appreciate one another’s company.

Everyone’s favorite part of the holiday is when Pickles shows up in his Santa Claus costume and gives all his pals a little gift to make them feel loved. Last year, he got everyone a snack (a piece of a huge hog!). This year we’re looking forward to spending time together and spreading holiday cheer!

While we aren’t open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, we do invite guests to join us on December 21-23 and December 27-31 (closing at noon on December 31). For more information on winter at Alligator Alley or to view our hours, visit gatoralleyfarm.com and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Pickles is a 6-year-old alligator weighing in at about 80 pounds and measuring 5 feet long. But don’t think for a second that he’s not one to fight – this alligator talks the talk and walks the walk. For now, he remains the most popular of the alligators because of his vibrant style choices and friendly attitude (most of the time).

Now, it’s time for you to really get to know the real Pickles.

Q: Pickles, what’s the deal with the green nail polish? Where does your distinctive style come from?

A: Growing up around all these alligators, I had to find a way to stand out in the crowd! Also, green is a lucky color and complements my skin tone.

Q: What’s your favorite outfit you’ve strutted around been over the past years?

A: Hmm…I’d have to say my Santa Claus costume or maybe my sweet tux!

Q: What’s your favorite part of Alligator Alley?

A: I like to swim around and make friends! We even play games of Marco Polo in the swamp.

Q: How did you earn the name “Pickles”?

A: Because I LOVE to eat Pickles! When I was just a baby, I stole a cheeseburger and ate the pickles off of it. Ever since, I’ve been hooked! Pickles and chow together make for the most delicious combo.

Pickles had to leave our interview for an important photo opportunity in his Halloween costume, but he will answer any fan mail you might have. Just send him or any of the other alligators your questions at info@gatoralleyfarm.com and we’ll add you to our newsletter to receive updates on what’s happening around the farm! By the way, Pickles has his own Facebook page– check him out!

We are currently open every day except Wednesdays, but our hours are changing for the holidays. Be sure to stop by and spot Pickles munching on his favorite snack!