Are all the things we have believed about animals since childhood actually true? Are predators, snakes and nocturnal animals really as they are portrayed in stories, fairy tales and popular beliefs? On August 28, visitors can find answers to these questions at the Nagyerdei Kultúrpark, which is once again joining the nationwide Zoo Night event series.
The 15th edition of Zoo Night will see 13 member institutions of the Association of Hungarian Zoos and Aquariums take part in 2026. This year’s nationwide theme, “Facts and myths about the animal world,” focuses on legends, misconceptions and ideas passed down through generations that continue to shape how we think about certain animals.
The Nagyerdei Kultúrpark will join the initiative with a special Debrecen program from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on August 28. As darkness falls, the zoo will take on a different atmosphere, with special animal presentations, feeding sessions, natural history curiosities, interactive stations and playful challenges awaiting visitors.
Visitors can explore common misconceptions and surprising facts about the animal world at various locations while discovering unusual aspects and stories from nature. Natural history games, special relics and glowing minerals will be accompanied by themed exhibitions, photo spots and a bravery challenge. As part of one of the evening’s community programs, visitors can also take part in choosing names for the capybaras.
One of the highlights of the event will once again be a series of animal presentations and spectacular feeding sessions. During the evening, Nile hippos, tapirs and capybaras, brown capuchin monkeys, red pandas, penguins, sloths, a Nile crocodile, Asiatic lions and Siberian tigers will all take center stage. Visitors will also have the opportunity to get a closer look at snakes in the Palm House, while further encounters with animals in the tropical areas will add to the nighttime experience.
Zoo Night, however, goes beyond the boundaries of the zoo. One of the special features of the Nagyerdei Kultúrpark is that the amusement park also switches to nighttime mode, bringing together education, wildlife and classic amusement park entertainment in one event.
After dark, the amusement park will come alive with lights, music and spectacular performances. The program will include a stilt-walking show, a LED and fire show by the Tűzfészek troupe, performances by Főnix Tribal and Karmazsin Csiga, a percussion ensemble from the Zoltán Kodály School of Music, as well as an evening foam party. Families can also enjoy craft activities, face painting, UV face painting, glitter tattoos and other interactive programs throughout the evening.
The event offers both entertainment and an opportunity to look at animals from a different perspective. Zoo Night is not simply about seeing what the zoo looks like after dark—it also encourages visitors to look beyond familiar stories and replace myths with genuine knowledge.
One ticket – two parks, one full evening
Zoo Night will take place on August 28, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Nagyerdei Kultúrpark.
An admission ticket costs HUF 3,900 and provides access to both the zoo and amusement park.
For visitors who want unlimited access to the amusement park rides in addition to the evening program, a HUF 7,500 Magic Wristband is available.
The organizers recommend purchasing tickets in advance to make entry quicker and more convenient.
