Christmas at Colchester Zoo

Treat the family to a magical day out at Colchester Zoo in Essex this Christmas. As well as seeing a wide variety of animals, families can meet Santa, join in festive activities and follow the after-dark light trail.

Dates/times of individual attractions vary.

The Santa Experience

Find your way through a magical wonderland on your journey to the North Pole, stopping off to enjoy a tasty treat at Mrs Claus’ Kitchen. Learn how the zoo’s Wilbur the Woolly Mammoth is made in the Elf Workshop and then meet Santa himself and receive a special present – your own Wilbur. Cost: £16 per child (in addition to admission charges). Dates: selected dates from 23rd November to 24th December.

The Magic of Christmas

Visitors can look forward to a variety of festive daytime activities this Christmas, all included in admission tickets. Join The Wild Vibe Crew for Jingle Jam Party filled with seasonal tunes or enjoy Christmas Tales. In addition there is a Christmas Puzzle Trail, train rides, face painting, crafts in the Elves’ Workshop, reindeer to see, a Christmas Post Box and more. Dates: selected dates from 23rd November to 24th December.

Enchanted Trail of Light

Discover a host of installations as you follow the after-dark light trail through the grounds. Highlights include an immersive blue ice tunnel, rainbow light bridge, life-sized animal illuminations, dancing fountains and interactive light zones. Dates: selected dates from 30th November to 30th December. Cost: from £12.50 per person (over 3 years of age) on off-peak dates.

Book tickets online in advance.

Please see Colchester Zoo’s website to find out more and book.