Wild Lights has returned to Dublin Zoo, offering families a stunning night-time experience with a brand new theme for 2022 - The Magic of Life.
The launch took place last night which saw Dublin Zoo light up using thousands of bright installations. This year's theme focuses on the millions of plant and animal species around the world threatened with extinction, highlighting the importance of biodiversity through colourful lanterns.
It was my first time going to Wild Lights and I wasn't really sure what to expect. Thanks to my many mummy WhatsApp groups, I knew the event was very popular, especially leading up to Christmas, but I had no idea how truly special the experience would be.
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I brought by 2-year-old son, thinking he might last 30 minutes before losing interest (as toddlers generally do) but I was very wrong. As soon as we walked in the gate he was totally captivated and he stayed completely engaged for the full walk around the zoo. He didn't lose interest once - and neither did I.
From the moment I walked in, I was totally blown away by the impressive displays. Huge light-up flowers and enormous owls greet you on arrival. Then you come to an amazing open space with gigantic bees and stunning bee-hives lighting up the zoo. This was probably one of the most impressive parts of the entire visit - although there were plenty of other cool things to see.
Giant butterflies, huge spiders, tigers, bears, as well as some lesser known plants and animals were all part of the experience and each one had my little man totally absorbed.
We were there for almost an hour and a half, and that was on a very wet night. If the weather had been better, we probably would have stayed longer and would have sat down for a cosy hot chocolate in the picnic area.
Wild Lights will open to the public on Friday, October 28 until Monday, January 9 2023. Throughout November, Wild Lights will be open every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from 5pm until 9pm. From December 1 until January 9, the experience will be open seven days a week from 5pm until 9pm (excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and St Stephen’s Day).
Admission to Wild Lights is €23 for adults and €19 for children. Annual pass holders can avail of a special rate of €21 for adults and €17 for children. Children under 3 go free but an online booking is required. You can book your tickets here.
Judging from my local mum groups, tickets sell out quickly so booking well in advance is recommended.
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