The Wrocław Zoo is set to illuminate the autumn and winter nights with the return of its enchanting light exhibition, “Garden of Lights,” starting on October 25, 2024. Following the success of last year’s “Wild Africa,” this season’s theme invites visitors on a magical journey through the vibrant landscapes of Wild Asia, running until March 2, 2025.
This year, the exhibition will shine a spotlight on the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, serving as its ambassador. With only about 400 of these majestic cats remaining in the wild, their population faces significant threats from poaching and habitat loss. In a bid to support conservation efforts, Wrocław Zoo has pledged to donate 1 PLN from every ticket sold to the WildCats Conservation Alliance, which collaborates with the DODO Foundation at the Wrocław Zoo to combat poaching and protect these magnificent creatures.
A Dazzling Display of Asian Wildlife
The “Wild Asia” exhibition promises to captivate visitors with over 50 hand-painted lanterns depicting various species, including Bornean orangutans, Indian elephants, snow leopards, and more. The exhibition showcases animals from diverse climates, ranging from the tropical rainforests of Borneo to the heights of the Himalayas. A special interactive 50-meter path has been designed for younger guests, featuring shimmering trees bathed in colourful lights, all set to a harmonious musical backdrop.
As with previous years, the tour will navigate through the historic parts of the zoo, blending multimedia technology with the enchanting world of nature. The exhibition will be open every evening after the zoo closes, allowing guests to experience the magical atmosphere under the stars.
Michał Chojnacki, President of Wonderful Lighting, the company responsible for creating the exhibition, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “We are thrilled to present the Garden of Lights in Wrocław for the second time. It’s a unique opportunity to not only entertain but also to work together to save endangered animal species. Every aspect of this exhibition has been designed with the real inhabitants of this special place—the animals—in mind.”
Conservation Efforts and Community Support
Weronika Łysek, spokesperson for the Wrocław Zoo, encourages the public to visit “Garden of Lights: Wild Asia,” highlighting the exhibition’s educational aspect and its role in conservation. “The exhibition’s theme differs from last year, allowing visitors to learn more about new species while contributing to the conservation of Sumatran tigers. The fact that 1 PLN from every ticket will support their protection in the wild is the primary goal of this initiative,” she stated.
Last year, the zoo and Wonderful Lighting collectively raised 84,000 PLN for the conservation of African penguins, demonstrating the tangible impact of their partnership. “Each visitor contributes to the preservation of nature,” added Łysek.
For more information, visit Garden of Lights Wrocław.