Ireland is jam packed with activities that are ideal for families and daters alike. From museums and festivals to cafés and comedy; this small island has it all. However, this particular event may just take the top spot.
This Winter, Dublin Zoo will be hosting an incredible light exhibition called Wild Lights. The night-time event features Chinese lanterns in the shape of wild animals and they will be scattered throughout the zoo along with Asian food and drink stalls.
Just imagine walking through the zoo at night surrounded by 19,000 bulbs and 5,000 metres of LED lights. Romantic or wha'?
Of course, this event isn't exclusive to romantics. It would be a great night for the whole family especially as children under the age of three get in free. Adult's tickets are €20 and children's are €15.
Where did the idea for the exhibit come from? We asked Emma Kiernan from Dublin Zoo.
At Dublin Zoo, we’re always looking to offer our visitors new and unique experiences. Wild Lights is exactly that – it’s the first time Dublin Zoo has ever hosted a night-time event of this scale and size.
The stunning giant lanterns, which have been inspired by wildlife, will sit along a magical trail and on the lakes within the Zoo. This spectacular event is the first of its kind in Ireland and perfect for people of all ages!
What was the reaction of people /families at the preview?
People were really blown away. It is a very special experience to be in Dublin Zoo at night time, surrounded by these beautiful colorful lanterns.
Both the kids and adults were mesmerized and it was only a very small preview of what people can expect when Wild Lights opens on November 3rd.
Tickets go on sale today, who do think this will appeal to - Date night or families?
Everyone! This is an event for all ages. It will suit families, date night, groups and is a great option for Christmas parties.
The lantern trail really is going to be an unforgettable experience and will include a pride of lions, orangutans, tigers, giraffe, monkeys and much more! The highlights will be a 16-metre high porcelain elephant tower and a 30-metre long Chinese dragon.Everything will be handmade specifically for Dublin Zoo to complement the surroundings.
Visitors will also be treated to short performances from Chinese acrobats and artists and get the chance to sample some Asian cuisine from the food and drink stalls along the route. There will also be a marketplace with gifts crafted by Chinese artists.
Just a taster of #WildLights at @DublinZoo pic.twitter.com/CDzKpFtbLI
— LifeStyle on RTÉ (@LifeStyleRTE) September 13, 2017
If you're looking for other family-friendly activities in Ireland, why not check out Ciaran Dunne's suggestions here? We've highlighted our top two picks below.
National Ploughing Championship
The Ploughing starts on Tuesday 19th and is now more than just a competition. Over 250,000 people will be entertained over the three days with a tented trade village, a food fair, craft village, fashion shows, celebrity guests, sheep dog trials, craft demonstrations, celebrity cookery demonstrations, outdoor radio broadcasts and much more.
Culture Night
The 13th Culture Night takes places next Friday, September 22nd with venues and public spaces across the island of Ireland opening their doors to host a programme of free late-night entertainment, as part of an all-island celebration of arts, heritage and culture.
