Chester Zoo Lanterns and Light - Wild Worlds Brought to Life

Prepare for a winter wonderland at Chester Zoo as Lanterns and Light return again this year! Until 31st December 2023, wrap up warm and embark on an enjoyable journey through enchanting light and sound experiences, adding a bit of magic into your festive season with your little ones.

There are luminous light installations, festive landscapes including orangutans, lions, dolphins, and even woolly mammoths! The trail dazzles with colour-changing displays, adorned by birds and stars along paths and trees. Meander through the Winter Cathedral tunnel of lights, catch a glimpse of Father Christmas and let the holiday spirit envelop you.

Indulge in marshmallow toasting, encounter a larger-than-life brightly-lit-stag, marvel at a colossal 3D projection of a woolly mammoth, admire lantern puppets and bask in the warmth of flickering fire gardens. There are a few rides for your little people and keep an eye out for Father Christmas along the way! Alongside the brightly illuminated animals there’s a sparkling forest of light synchronised with music. And don’t miss the towering Winter Cathedral tunnel of lights – an absolute Instagram favourite!

The trail around Chester Zoo captivated us for around 90 minutes, although don’t expect to see any of the real animals as they are not part of the event. While food and drink options are available for purchase, the website welcomes you to bring your own – a wise choice, given my underwhelming experience with the provided offerings. I’d recommend bringing your own picnic, especially if going around a time when you might want to eat.

Tickets are currently on sale and nabbing yourself a mid-week ticket on 12th - 14th December 2023 nets you a complimentary mulled wine or hot chocolate. Our little one was mesmerised by the lights and we were particularly impressed by the lantern puppets. Overall, it’s an enjoyable festive adventure!