Afterglow at Chester Zoo

Afterglow returns for fifteen unmissable evenings, and one unforgettable summer celebration. This much-loved evening event invites guests to explore Chester Zoo in a whole new light, with golden-hour adventures, music, festival food and surprise moments around every corner. Afterglow is designed for summer evenings with a difference. It’s a chance for families and friends to get together, try something new, and experience the zoo after hours.

What’s waiting across the zoo? 

With five immersive zones to explore, Afterglow promises dancing dinosaurs, giant puppets and interactive sea creatures – plus plenty of food, fun and feel-good moments.

• Fairground rides with thrills for all ages 
• Festival classics – hot dogs, nachos, sweet treats and more 
• Roaming puppets, stilt walkers and pop-up performances 
• Giant dinosaurs in the Land of Dinosaurs 
• Self-guided trail, guided meditation and lazy river boat ride 
• Live music, dancing and prizes to be won Five zones.

Five ways to Afterglow. Each zone offers movement, music and something unexpected: 

• A Wild Welcome - the evening begins here. Guests receive a welcome drink, pick up a map and can get festival-ready with face painting and accessories. 
• Dinosaur Discovery - roaming dinosaurs, fossil digs and virtual reality experiences bring this prehistoric zone to life. 
• Festival Field - live shows, fairground rides and family challenges take centre stage – with exciting prizes to be won. 
• Below the Surface - glowing sea puppets and a collaborative Lego mosaic create a playful, interactive marine world. 
• Islands Retreat - visitors can slow down and connect with nature through a self-guided wellbeing trail, guided meditation, or a peaceful boat ride along the lazy river.

Afterglow tickets start from just £14, and your ticket allows you to arrive anytime from 3:00pm to 7:00pm.