Run for Nature is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever. This year’s event introduces a brand-new 5K challenge alongside the popular 10K run and the one mile Zoom fun run for children. There’s also a new route that takes in even more of the zoo’s most iconic sights. Taking part in Run for Nature means more than crossing a finish line. It’s a chance to help save Nubian giraffes from extinction, and enjoy some unforgettable extras: Free zoo entry for all runners Exclusive pre-opening access to Heart of Africa — and the giraffes 25% discounted zoo entry for friends and family supporters A finisher medal to wear with pride Fundraising bonuses and prizes Access to the zoo’s biggest ever event village And much more New for 2025: Run for Nature 5K New to running or chasing a new PB? The all-new 5K race features a flat and fast course — ideal for everyone from couch-to-5K first-timers to seasoned runners chasing a personal best. All Run for Nature events - including the 5K, 10K and children’s Zoom run - feature accessible, flat routes through the Chester Zoo estate. Starting inside the zoo, runners pass through areas like the Conservation Breeding Management Area and other behind-the-scenes sights. Entries are now open. Run for Nature sold out in both 2023 and 2024. Early booking is essential to secure a place.

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. 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. Five zones. Five ways to Afterglow. Each zone offers movement, music and something unexpected. Afterglow tickets start from just £14, and your ticket allows you to arrive anytime from 3:00pm to 7:00pm.

The North West’s must-see festive light experience returns for 2025 - with more dates than ever before, and even more magic to discover. This winter, Chester Zoo will once again transform after dark into a glowing world of light, colour and sound. From immersive trails and walk-through installations to festive food, interactive puppets and joyful fairground rides, Lanterns and Light offers unforgettable memories for all ages. Chester Zoo has partnered once again with Sony Music to create a more immersive, more interactive and more unforgettable experience than ever before. Expect: Immersive walk-throughs Magical moments to share Interactive animal puppets New installations - including a spectacular Bubble Walk And that’s just the beginning. Look out for suspended kaleido stars, glowing fire gardens, laser-lit trees, and more surprises along the trail. Highlights of the experience include: New walk-through experiences Interactive animal puppets Immersive light installations Festive food and drink Fairground rides for all ages Magical moments to share From glowing tunnels and puppet encounters to seasonal treats and dazzling visuals - every turn reveals something new. Quiet hour: On selected dates, visitors can enjoy a quieter experience during a special 4pm entry slot. Numbers are limited to create a calmer, more accessible visit across the trail. Quiet hour available on: 15, 21, 22 & 27 November and 4 December