What's On at Yorkshire Wildlife Park for the Night Out at the Zoo Finale?

Ever wondered what a zoo is like after everyone usually goes home? Picture this: the sun is setting, the air is a bit cooler, and the sounds of the day turn into the mysterious noises of the night. This weekend, the award-winning Yorkshire Wildlife Park is throwing open its gates for the grand finale of its much-loved Night Out at the Zoo. It's an opportunity for guests to experience the park in a completely new way, with a whole host of amazing entertainment and the chance to see the animals as dusk falls. This special event is more than just a late opening; it's a full-on celebration with a unique atmosphere that transforms the entire park.

A full day and an exciting evening

One of the best things about this special event is that a single ticket covers the whole day. Guests can arrive from 9 am, enjoy all the sights and sounds of the park in the sunshine, and then stay on for the special evening experience. There's no need to leave and come back. Visitors can spend the day marvelling at some of the world's most incredible animals, from the majestic giraffes gracefully nibbling on leaves to the powerful but endangered black rhinos. The park is home to so many at-risk species, including the fascinating African painted dogs, and seeing them is always a treat.

But as the day turns into evening, that's when the real magic begins. The whole vibe of the park changes. The fading light creates a stunning backdrop for a sunset safari, offering a rare chance to wander the paths as the nocturnal world begins to wake up. This special Night Out at the Zoo event is designed to give guests a completely different perspective on the animals and their habitats.

What happens when the sun goes down?

So, why is an evening visit so special? Well, lots of animals are actually more active during the cooler, quieter hours of twilight. The daytime heat can make them a bit sleepy, but as temperatures drop, they often become more playful and energetic. It's a chance to see a different side to their personalities. This unique atmosphere is something the park's team is really excited about.

As CEO John Minion said, "Night Out at the Zoo is a fantastic opportunity for guests to explore and see the park in a completely different light and atmosphere. By evening time, temperatures will be slighter cooler which should be perfect weather to explore the park."

He adds, "With the animals at their most active during the cooler quieter hours and a full programme of entertainment, it's a memorable evening for all ages!" This is the perfect setting to see some of the world's most iconic creatures in a truly remarkable way. The entire evening is planned to make sure guests have an unforgettable time.

It's showtime!

And it's not just about the animals. The entertainment lined up for the finale is spectacular. As visitors walk around the park, they will bump into all sorts of amazing performers. The whole event is packed with live acts designed to delight everyone. The entertainment offering is huge!

Here's just a little taste of what's on offer:

• Roaming Performers: Look out for incredible stilt walkers and colourful costumed characters bringing the paths to life.
• Acrobat Monkey Runners: These performers bring a burst of energy and fun as they run and tumble through the crowds.
• Main Stage Shows: The Amphitheatre will be the place to be for a high-energy show packed with dazzling acrobatics, dance, and a breathtaking fire show.

There will be rotating performances on Tsavo Lawn between 4-8 pm, so there's always something new and exciting to see throughout the evening. The sheer amount of entertainment planned ensures there's never a dull moment for any of the guests.

Get your boogie on

Ready to dance? The famous Jungle Boogie is making a return, and it's had a complete refresh with a brand-new soundtrack. It's the perfect chance to let loose and have a dance with family and friends. The addition of live music throughout the park adds to the festival feel, creating a buzzing atmosphere that's full of fun. There will also be plenty of food stalls dotted around, offering tasty treats to keep energy levels up for all the dancing.

The team is particularly thrilled about this part of the event. John Minion notes, "We're also looking forward to introducing Jungle Boogie's new songs and providing fun for all the family and friends." It's clear this part of the evening is all about creating happy memories and sharing a fun experience together.

More than just a park

The fun doesn't have to stop when the event ends. The wider Yorkshire Wildlife Resort offers even more. For those wanting to make a weekend of it, there's the Hex Wildlife Hotel right on site. Imagine waking up and being just a stone's throw away from the incredible animals.

Right next door is The Yorkshire Hive, a fantastic shopping, dining, and entertainment village. It's the perfect place to grab a bite to eat before heading into the park or to pick up a souvenir to remember the day. It really turns a day trip into a mini-holiday. This resort setup, combining the park with the hotel and the Hive, makes the whole Yorkshire Wildlife Park experience something truly special.

The CEO summed up the excitement perfectly: "With live entertainment, food stalls and live music, there is something for everyone to enjoy. It's always a popular event and even more exciting now we have new arrivals at the park." This finale of Night Out at the Zoo sounds like an unmissable evening.