By ANNA USHER

Taronga Zoo will come alive after dark this October, with a brand-new night-time experience set to light up the school holidays.

Running for ten nights only, Taronga After Dark invites locals to explore the Zoo under the stars – with glowing animal trails, close-up wildlife encounters, cocktails at sunset, and a packed line-up of live entertainment.

From Friday 3 to Sunday 12 October, the iconic harbourside attraction will open its gates from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm, offering something for every kind of night owl whether you’re wrangling kids, planning a date night, or just keen to see what the lions and tigers get up to when the sun goes down.

“Little adventurers can follow lantern-lit trails through the Zoo, encounter some incredible wildlife after dark, and enjoy a captivating Mermaid Show at the Seal Theatre,” a Zoo spokesperson told Mosman Collective.

“The evening also features a special Sunset Seals for the Wild presentation, perfect for animal lovers of all ages.”

Families can choose their own adventure as they explore different glowing zones with plenty of fun activities (and a few surprises!) around every corner.

We’re told you’ll be able to see the giraffes, African Lions and Sumatran Tigers, as well as 42 species that jump, slither and crawl at the new Amphibian and Reptile Experience.

“Kids can also enjoy glow-in-the-dark face painting and even get a selfie with a Mermaid,” the spokesperson said.

While youngsters soak up the fun, adults can unwind with live music at the Archie Rose Sunset Bar, offering sweeping views over the African Savannah and Taronga’s iconic giraffe herd.

There will also be a Food Truck Village on site, offering street food and desserts under the stars.

Included FREE with a Taronga After Dark Ticket:

• Magical Mermaid Shows
• Sunset Seals for the Wild Presentation
• Lantern-lit animal trails and lighting displays
• Discover the night-time antics of animals
• Glow in the dark face painting and fun kids activities
• Mesmerising Wildlife Cinema experience
• Food truck village with family favourites and desserts
• Live acoustic music, sunset bar and sparkling harbour views

Optional Add-On Adventures:

• Wild Ropes Treetops Adventure – Taronga’s fun and challenging high ropes courses will be illuminated during Taronga After Dark.

The experience is suitable for kids through to adults, with prices starting from $48 for adults (16+), $36 for children (8-15) and $27 for kids (3-7). Bookings can be made online or on-site.

Event Details:

Dates: Friday 3 – Saturday 12 October 2025 (10 nights only)
Time: 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Road, Mosman
Tickets: Adults (15+) $41, Children (4-15) $36, Concessions $37.80 and under 3’s free

(Taronga Zoo Friends receive a 10% discount on all ticket purchases and access to pre-sale.)