Chester Zoo’s Lanterns and Light event is a must-visit for zoo touring enthusiasts who want to experience the magic of Christmas. This annual event, taking place from 15 November 2024 to 1 January 2025, offers a unique opportunity to explore the zoo in a whole new light.
Cost and Booking
Tickets for Lanterns and Light are available for purchase through the Chester Zoo online shop starting in April 2024. Prices start at £12 for adults and £10 for children, with under 2s going free. Members receive a 10% discount on tickets booked online before May 31, 2024, making the cheapest child tickets £10.80 and adults £16.20.
The Chester Zoo Lanterns Experience
Lanterns and Light is a captivating trail of spectacular scenes and breathtaking displays that will leave you full of festivity. The event features larger-than-life animal statues, light and sound installations, and even a giant woolly mammoth projection. Visitors can also enjoy a glowing tunnel of lights, fill up on festive treats in the Christmas food markets, and come face-to-face with Father Christmas himself along the trail.
The event follows a specific route around the zoo, and indoor animal habitats will stay closed. However, the trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the zoo in a different way, without the usual crowds and noise.
Practical Information
Visitors should arrive at their designated entrance time to avoid overcrowding. The trail is pram and wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for all visitors. Parking is free at the main entrance to the zoo.
If the weather is very bad, the event may be cancelled or certain elements of the trail may close for health and safety reasons. Visitors are advised to check the Chester Zoo website for updates before their visit.
A Unique Perspective
Lanterns and Light is not just a Christmas event; it’s a celebration of wildlife and conservation. By attending the event, visitors are supporting Chester Zoo’s mission to prevent extinction and protect endangered wildlife and habitats both in the UK and around the world.
The event is produced by Wild Rumpus, the same people who brought us Just So Festival, and offers a magical experience that begins as soon as visitors step into the grounds. The trail is split up into different Worlds, each with a different vibe and appeal, offering something for everyone.
Here are some additional details about the Chester Zoo Lanterns experience:
Unique Displays and Installations
- Giant animal statues, including a 10-meter-tall woolly mammoth
- Immersive light and sound installations that bring the zoo to life
- A glowing tunnel of lights that creates a mesmerizing visual experience
- Festive food and drink stalls serving up seasonal treats and beverages
Interactive Experiences
- Meet and greet with Father Christmas along the trail
- Opportunities to learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts and the animals that call it home
- Interactive elements that encourage visitors to engage with the displays
Accessibility and Inclusivity
- The trail is pram and wheelchair friendly, ensuring accessibility for all visitors
- Designated quiet areas for visitors who need a break from the sensory experience
- British Sign Language interpretation available for select events and activities
Sustainability and Conservation
- The event is designed with sustainability in mind, using energy-efficient lighting and minimizing waste
- Proceeds from the event support Chester Zoo’s mission to prevent extinction and protect endangered species
- Visitors can learn about the zoo’s conservation work and how they can get involved
Whether you’re a regular zoo visitor or a first-time explorer, the Chester Zoo Lanterns and Light event is a must-see experience that will leave you enchanted and inspired. With its unique displays, interactive elements, and commitment to conservation, it’s a truly magical way to celebrate the Christmas season.
References:
– Chester Zoo, “Lanterns and Light – Chester Zoo Tickets,” Shop Chester Zoo, accessed May 24, 2024, https://shop.chesterzoo.org/events/lanterns-and-light.
– Chester Zoo, “Christmas at Chester Zoo | Chester Zoo,” Chester Zoo, accessed May 24, 2024, https://www.chesterzoo.org/our-zoo/christmas-at-chester-zoo/.
– Chester Zoo, “Lanterns and Light | Chester Zoo,” Chester Zoo, accessed May 24, 2024, https://www.chesterzoo.org/lanterns-and-light/.
– Marvellous Mrs P, “The Lanterns at Chester Zoo – Is It Worth It?,” Marvellous Mrs P, July 3, 2023, https://www.marvellousmrsp.com/the-lanterns-at-chester-zoo-is-it-worth-it/.
– Adam and Craig Do Stuff, “Chester Zoo Lanterns and Light 2023 – YouTube,” YouTube, December 9, 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayHYpr42AqE.