Chester Zoo is one of the most popular zoos in the UK.
According to the web information it is drawing over 2 million visitors per year. Sprawling across 125 acres, it is home to over 21,000 animals from 555 different species. The zoo features a wide variety of habitats, from tropical forests to wetlands, showcasing conservation projects across the globe.
We were visiting my daughter and son-in-law for the Christmas holidays (living in Chester) when they surprised us with tickets to Chester Zoo’s magical “Lanterns and Lights” festival. Considering the horrid weather (it was stormy indeed), the idea of visiting a zoo seems off putting at first but it turned to be a great experience.
This after-hours event transforms the zoo into a sparkling winter wonderland through imaginative light installations.
As we entered the front gates that evening, we were greeted by a blitz of twinkling lights with Christmas tunes filling the air. Every tree, bridge and path was lined with colorful bulbs casting a warm glow.
Intricate animal-themed lantern sculptures illuminated our way, from a towering giraffe to a family of tigers.
We wandered through this winter dreamland glowing with light and color around every turn. Hologram of giant mammoth floated over our heads as we crossed a bridge. In the monkey habitat, choreographed lights danced playfully across treetops in time to “The Nutcracker Suite.” (Tchaikovsky) - making it extra special as we have enjoyed the traditional Christmas Ballet only a few days earlier in London.
It was delightful to see the habitats of these animals we know and love infused with such festive whimsy - and no real animal was in sight.
No detail had been overlooked. The zoo’s restaurants and gift shops were dressed in their holiday best, with garlands bedecking every wall.
Families roasted marshmallows over crackling fire pits. And what better way to warm up than with a steaming cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate?
Being at the Chester Zoo is always a joy, but seeing it completely transformed by the magic of the season made for an unforgettable night.
The illuminated landscapes, dancing lights, and festive music fill one’s heart with childlike wonder.
It was the perfect way to kindle some Christmas spirit with my family before the holiday. Spectacular indeed.
