ZOOmeravonden at Artis Zoo

Calling all creatures of the night

Around since 1838, Artis Zoo is the oldest zoo both in Amsterdam and the Netherlands. But for all its years, the 19th century relic is barely showing its age, now housing over 700 exotic, rare and the more familiar species across some 14 hectares of rolling urban expanse.

The zoo is open all year around and popular by day, but come the months of June, July and August and Artis really comes alive as the midnight hours wash over the city.

A nocturnal Eden

Open until sunset, the zoo has plenty going on for families, children and the creature curious. Some animals may be sleeping but for those still wide-eyed, why not steal an encounter up close and personal with the furry and feathered kind?

If you’d rather not amble alone, let one of the Zoo’s caretakers guide you behind-the-scenes from Monkey Rock to the reptile house and on to the butterfly pavilion.

Live music, stage and theatre performances

The whole zoo is literally throbbing with life. For kids, there’s face painting, scavenger hunts, puppet shows and book-readings by the raccoon’s sleeping quarters. Meanwhile live music, stage and theatre performances are likely to appeal to adult crowds.

Then you've got the zookeepers sharing their tales of the zoo and volunteer staff on standby to assist with those questions you’ve always wanted to know but were too afraid to ask.

Planetarium

Finally, why not end your night under a blanket of stars with a visit to the Planetarium? It’s not quite Van Gogh’s Starry Night; still, it’s a visual delight. Or simply watch the natural sunset claim the city and the Zoo's fascinating inhabitants in sleep.

Zoo-per, douper
If you fancy a picnic on the grounds, stalls and delivery bikes are dotted around the zoo gardens offering an array of baguettes, wine, prosecco, soft drinks, olives and other delicious snacks and drinks.

To make reservations and to check the full programme, check Artis Zoomeravonden (website in Dutch only).