After dark, Dublin Zoo is transformed into a trail of light. Handcrafted lanterns, colours and music come together in Wild Lights, a winter event that invites young and old to discover the park in a different atmosphere.
Held at Dublin Zoo, in Dublin, Wild Lights offers an evening stroll among illuminated installations. Each edition adopts a theme and creates a different world through lanterns, decorations and soundscapes.
The event is a family-friendly idea for a winter outing. The zoo says that visits help support its wildlife protection activities and conservation projects.
For the 2026–2027 season, Passport to Wonder invites visitors to explore nine areas inspired by celebrations and stories from different regions around the world.
The trail evokes Japanese cherry blossom, the energy of Seoul, the lights of Diwali, the colours of the Brazilian carnival and Irish traditions. The spirit of Christmas joins this journey created with lanterns and light displays.
A visit to Santa’s grotto may be offered as a separate option. Check the conditions and availability on the zoo’s ticketing website: this experience should not be assumed to be included with all Wild Lights tickets.
The trail is visited in the evening, with a time slot selected during booking for the tickets concerned. The organisers also offer some sessions adapted for people with sensory sensitivities; their conditions and availability are listed on the official website.
As the visit takes place outdoors, bring warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes. Check transport and access arrangements before setting off, particularly on the busiest evenings.
See the official Dublin Zoo information for details of time slots, closures and ticketing. Our article about Wild Lights also introduces the theme of this edition.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, D08 AC98, Dublin, County Dublin, Republic of Ireland, Tourist sites in Ireland
