Chester Zoo launches half price tickets for special summer event

Chester Zoo is offering half price tickets to a special summer event where it will stay open later. The zoo’s new Afterglow event promises visitors 'a unique opportunity to explore the zoo and encounter 37,000 animals in a completely different light'.

With tickets now on sale at up to 50% cheaper than a standard day ticket, the 'spectacular evenings' will take place on exclusive dates between August 13 and 25, from 3pm-8pm.

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Conservationists at the zoo say Afterglow will offer a 'rare opportunity' to observe animals during what is, for many, one of their most active periods just before dusk.

Visitors will also be treated to live entertainment, games and activities, and there'll be food and drink on offer too. All proceeds are in support of the charity zoo’s vital conservation work, at home and overseas and members of the zoo can attend for free.

Anna Barker, Chester Zoo’s senior marketing manager, said: "Many will know what a special place the zoo is by day, but fewer have experienced it as the sun starts to set.

“This summer, across two special weeks in August, we’re giving people the opportunity to experience the zoo in a whole new way, and an entirely different light.

"Afterglow will be a special chance to explore the zoo when it’s usually closed for the evening, and to surround themselves with 37,000 amazing animals as darkness starts to fall."

Visitors could catch sight of snow leopards Yashin and Nubra on the prowl through their Himalayan habitat at dusk, or the Asian elephants taking an evening dip at the watering hole, or watch birds as they begin to return to their roosts before dark.

Anna added: “We’re really