Light Up the Wild Side: Why Zoos and Gardens Shouldn't Go Dark at Sundown
- jeffcason
- Jul 30
- 1 min read

As the sun sets, most zoos and botanical gardens wind down. But what if that's exactly when the magic should begin?
Nighttime entertainment like light trails, projection mapping, and immersive spectaculars can transform your property into a revenue-generating destination after dark.
Here are four compelling reasons to bring your venue to life at night:
🔦 Extend Guest Stay & Spend
When guests know there’s more to see after sunset, they’re more likely to stay longer—buying snacks, souvenirs, and second-round admissions while soaking in the atmosphere.
🌸 Activate Beautiful, Underutilized Spaces
That serene grove or winding trail? It becomes a canvas. Projection mapping and lighting can turn ordinary pathways into enchanting adventures, making the most of every square foot.
🎟️ Create New Ticketed Events
Light festivals and evening shows can be promoted as special experiences, allowing you to charge premium pricing, offer timed-entry, or build exclusive donor or member nights.
💡 Stand Out in the Local Market
With more leisure entertainment options than ever before, offering a one-of-a-kind immersive nighttime experience positions your zoo or garden as a must-visit destination—again and again.
How could your venue transform if you didn’t turn the lights off… but turned the magic on instead?