Winter Nights at the Zoo returns to Battersea for an affordable family Christmas experience

December in London usually means battling crowds and budget-breaking ticket prices for festive experiences. This year, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo returns with Winter Nights at the Zoo - a delightful three-hour event where families can feed donkeys at dusk, watch lemurs eat their supper, and listen to carols in the bandstand, all for one ticket price.

Far from the traditional light trail or Christmas market, Winter Nights at the Zoo will be bigger and brighter this year, offering a unique mix of mini live animal encounters, lantern-lit keeper talks, festive performances, hands-on crafts and games for children, and cosy seasonal food - all under the twinkling of fairylights.

Taking place over just five evenings this December (6th, 12th, 13th, 20th & 21st, from 5:30-8:30 pm), tickets start from just £16.95 per child, £65 for a group of four, making it one of London’s most affordable festive family experiences.

"It was such a lovely evening... we really enjoyed listening to the keepers' animal talks and helping to feed the pigs," wrote one visitor after last year's event. "It was a lovely way to start our Christmas celebrations."

What happens as darkness falls:

As fairy lights twinkle to life, the zoo transforms offering a unique chance to see nocturnal behaviours and explore animal habitats beneath the stars. 

Visitors can hand-feed donkeys at 6pm, watch the lemurs during their 6:30pm supper, and meet rare-breed pigs at 7pm. All included in the ticket price.

Listen to "informative but fun" talks from the expert Keeper team to find out more about the animals and important conservation projects. On the bandstand, local choirs and musicians will perform from 7:15-8:25 pm. There will be festive crafts (some free, others under £3) where children can make reindeer food and a selection of market stalls from independent makers, craft stalls and organisations.

"Who knew that an alpha female is at the top of the lemur hierarchy?" wrote one first-time visitor last year. "It was such a gorgeous way to spend a winter's evening in the lead up to Christmas."

Enjoy seasonal food and drink, with winter warmers to BBQ favourites provided by local partner Ruffled Truffle. The Zoo Cafe will be selling a variety of alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, seasonal winter warmers, and hot drinks to keep visitors cosy throughout the evening. 

“As London families look for Christmas events that feel special and full of memory-making experiences without the premium price tag, we're proud to offer something where the animals are the main event," says Gemma Cathie, Education and Events Manager. 

With three hours of entertainment wrapped into one affordable ticket, Winter Nights at the Zoo offers maximum festive fun without the Christmas crowds or high prices.

“Families, friends, and animal lovers seeking a memorable and affordable seasonal outing will find a truly unique Christmas experience waiting for them,” added Gemma.

For more information and to book tickets visit: Winter Nights at the Zoo Event page