Zoo Debrecen is welcoming the longer nights of autumn and winter with a unique program. The Polish Garden of Lights organizes the newest attraction of Hungary’s first rural zoo and botanical garden, along with its only classic amusement park. Through mesmerizing lights, it brings to life the magical world of Pinocchio’s story.
Opening for the first time in a rural city, the multimedia exhibition and light show debuted in Debrecen on October 18 and promises a full evening of family entertainment across 17.5 hectares. This enchanting event is sure to captivate audiences of all ages. Visitors will experience the famous tale of the wooden puppet, Pinocchio, through its most memorable settings and plot twists, meeting key characters such as Geppetto, Jiminy Cricket, the Blue Fairy, and others.
The immersive experience is powered by 200,000 energy-efficient LED lights, 12,000 meters of light strings, over 120 illuminated trees, 100 installation pieces, 8 photo points, multimedia stations, light tunnels, an interactive playground, and the most advanced lighting and sound technology.
Set in the heart of the Big Forrest, the country’s first protected natural area, the park emphasizes the sustainability and environmental considerations of the exhibition. Zoo Debrecen is proud to announce that thanks to its latest renewable energy project, a state-of-the-art solar power system now supplies a quarter of the zoo’s annual electricity consumption. The investment, inaugurated by Mayor László Papp during the exhibition’s opening, will fully cover the energy needs of the four-and-a-half-month-long exhibition with renewable energy. This development is part of ongoing efforts to reduce the ecological footprint of the institution.
As a year-round attraction offering increasingly diverse services, the park will continue to provide entertainment even outside the peak season. As seen last year, the amusement park season won’t end after Halloween. For the first time this year, in addition to the Baroque carousel, several rides will awaken from their winter slumber during the winter break (December 21, 2024 – January 5, 2025), creating a real winter wonderland alongside the Pinocchio light exhibition. Visitors will enjoy unlimited ride access, expanded culinary offerings, and special services and programs for those looking to have fun and unwind.
The Garden of Lights, offering unforgettable experiences from October 18 to March 2, 2025, is open for ticket sales online and on-site. Group tickets, corporate events, and photography packages will also be available.
(Debreceni Nap)
