There’s a nighttime event happening at Dublin Zoo this year and it sounds magical

Tickets go on sale this Friday.

Dublin Zoo's nighttime spectacular, Wild Lights, is returning later this year - and it's going to be more magical than ever. This year, the theme is Ocean of Light, and three's going to be an entirely new jaw-dropping display inspired by...well, the ocean. From giant squid to hammerhead sharks, colossal blue whales and dainty seahorses, Dublin Zoo  will be transformed into a sea of illumination using the special, tailor-made lanterns. And there's going to be three more new areas to add to the enchantment this year. Winter Wonderland will play home to the Arctic favourites like polar bears and walruses, while Celebrating China is going to be bringing a flavour of the Orient. And then there's The North Pole, which will house a 16-metre high silk Christmas tree as well as a host of festive displays. Speaking about the event, Leo Oosterweghel, Director of Dublin Zoo, said:

"We are delighted to announce the return of the award-winning Wild Lights event to Dublin Zoo. Last year’s event exceeded all expectations, so we are very excited for visitors to see what we have in store for 2018. "This years’ experience will be completely unique with brand-new themes and a fresh cast of characters including sea turtles, a colony of sea lions and even Rudolph! "Dublin Zoo is so proud to kick off this festive season with a truly breath-taking and memorable experience for all the family. We encourage people to book early at DublinZoo.ie to avoid disappointment!”

Wild Lights 2018 will be open to the public on Thursday, November 1 from 5pm until 9pm. The nighttime exhibition will end on January 6. Throughout November, Wild Lights will be open every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening. Meanwhile, from December 1 until January 6, it will be open seven days a week - except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and St. Stephen's Day. Tickets go on sale this Friday, September 14, and are available only at www.dublinzoo.ie. Admission to Wild Lights will be €20 for adults and €15 for children. Annual pass holders can avail of a special rate of €18 euro for adults and €12 euro for children. Children under the age of three go free once booked in advance online.