Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo has become a new tradition for families, couples and groups visiting Dublin over the Christmas season. The event was sorely missed in 2020 and we are delighted to welcome it back to Phoenix Park in 2021. This year’s theme ‘Around the World’ is in keeping with the return of international travel in the second half of the year. Make a weekend of it and book the nearby Ashling Hotel for your Dublin Winter Break, taking in the best of shopping, sightseeing and of course the magnificent Wild Lights on your trip.
Wild Lights Theme 2021
We are really excited about this year’s theme, ‘Around the World’, taking us on a magical adventure across the world. We can’t wait to see some of the world’s most famous landmarks illuminated in such gorgeous natural surrounds as Dublin Zoo. From Spain to India, Morocco to the USA, they’ve put together a light installation that takes us to the furthest reaches of our imagination, showing us the best of each country and continent. We can marvel at the wonders of the ancient Egyptian Pyramids, visit the gorgeous Eiffel Tower, or jet off to explore outer space without leaving Dublin Zoo!
The ‘lights’ are in fact handmade silk lanterns which are impressive during the day but are extra special when illuminated at night. You can follow the one-way trail through the zoo to see over a thousand illuminated lanterns which transforms Dublin Zoo into a magical space for young and old.
Tickets for Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
Wild Lights officially kicks off its night time programme in October 2021 and runs Thursday to Sunday from 5.00pm to 10.00pm for October and November. In December & January, you can visit every night from 4.00pm to 9.00pm until the exhibition ends on 9th January, apart from Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and St Stephens Day when the zoo is closed. Tickets for Wild Lights sell like hot cakes and there will be more demand than ever this year so make sure to buy your tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. You can buy tickets on the Dublin Zoo Website https://www.dublinzoo.ie/wildlights/ and they cost €22 for adults or €18 for children.
Phoenix Park
Dublin Zoo is set against the stunning backdrop of the jewel in Dublin’s crown, Phoenix Park. This huge 1,752 acre park is bigger than Central Park in New York and has so much to keep you entertained. It’s the largest walled park in Europe and there are activities and sights for all ages and abilities. You can enjoy a walk in the rolling hills and fields, cycle or drive through enjoying the greenery or admire (from a distance!) the herd of wild deer that call the park home. You can visit Farmleigh House, the Papal Cross, The Peoples Gardens, The Magazine Fort and wave to the President of Ireland in his home, Aras an Uachtarain.
Winter in Dublin
There is something so special about Dublin’s Fair City in Winter. Aside from the inevitable cold weather, there is something for all ages. Wrap up well and shopping in the gorgeous Grafton Street area with some of the best brand and high street names dotted along the streets. Visit the moving crib at the Mansion House, enjoy a festive meal in one of the hundreds of restaurants in the city and visit Dublin’s best tourist attractions – all within walking distance of Ashling Hotel. Make sure to visit the Guinness Storehouse whose steamy white clouds rise above the River Liffey directly across from the hotel each morning.
If you need the perfect family, solo, group or couples’ accommodation for your Dublin winter break, contact Ashling Hotel. Our location on the edge of the city, a stone’s throw from Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo, is ideal for Christmas shopping, trips to the theatre, or family days out without the hassle. Treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or dinner in our restaurant and finish out a busy day with a well-deserved drink in our bar. You’ll find our best available rates and special offers exclusively when you book on our website or contact our friendly team.
