There’s a certain kind of magic to seeing a zoo at night. The animals are tucked into their beds, bar the occasional penguin padding around his pond, or a lion pacing around their sleeping pride. Usually, it’s not for the eyes of the public.

But after the success of last year’s nighttime spectacular, Wild Lights has returned to Dublin Zoo and is now open until the start of January. At this special time of year, visitors can go to the zoo at night for the festive extravaganza.

When the night falls, the illuminated silk lanterns dotted around the zoo begin to glow, and a whole cast of characters tell the story of “Ocean of Light”. Inspired by the wonders of the life aquatic, you’ll find huge blue whales, swarms of jellyfish, hammerhead sharks, polar bears and seals.

There are other areas to explore too – Winter Wonderland has polar bears, walruses and tigers, Celebrating China has lines of lanterns and Huns, and The North Pole has the beloved Santa’s workshop, a giant Christmas tree and reindeer pulling a sleigh.

There are Christmas market stalls dotted around as well, selling hot chocolates, festive trinkets and crafts.

Wild Lights will take place in Dublin Zoo until Sunday 6^th January from 5pm-9pm. Wild Lights will be open every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening in November extending to seven nights a week in December and into January. Tickets cost €20 for adults and €15 for children.

The Croke Park is the perfect hotel to stay in for a trip to the zoo – it’s just a 15-minute drive away (and onsite parking is free for guests). You can see more, including special offers and family rates, on the website. There's also a Dublin Zoo Family Package, which includes a family day pass - you can read more here.