Dreamnight at Neunkirchen Zoo

A Night for Those Who Usually See Too Little

Dreamnight at the Zoo is an international initiative that originated in 1996 at Rotterdam Zoo and has since spread to over 350 zoological gardens in more than 40 countries. The concept: Once a year, a zoo opens its gates exclusively for chronically ill and disabled children and their families — free of charge, with a special program, free from crowds. Neunkirchen Zoo, located in the district of the same name in Saarland, has been part of this network since 2018 in cooperation with the district town.

Program with Heart

During Dreamnight, the children are the focus. Animal encounters with selected zoo residents, guided behind-the-scenes tours — keeper rooms, food kitchen, night quarters —, meetings with the animal keepers, a spectacular falconry flight show, and surprises from local partners. Food and drinks are provided by sponsors.

An Inclusive Event in Saarland

Dreamnight at Neunkirchen Zoo is one of Saarland's most consistent inclusion events. It appeals to a target group for whom a normal zoo visit is often strenuous: families with chronically ill children, children with disabilities, multiple births siblings, and caregivers. In this special atmosphere — a zoo without jostling, exclusive animal contact, personal interaction with the staff — experiences are created that are the highlight of the year for many families.

Registration Required, Not Spontaneous Visits

Participation is only possible with prior registration; spontaneous arrival is not planned. Register via the district town of Neunkirchen (Nicole Reif, 06821 202417, [email protected]) by the registration deadline, about one month before the event. The zoo closes to regular visitors at 4 PM and opens for Dreamnight from 5 PM for registered families.

Neunkirchen Zoo — A Saarland Family Destination

With around 400 animals on 16 hectares, Neunkirchen Zoo is one of the most important zoological gardens in Saarland. It specializes in European animal species and Sumatran tigers, nestled in a park landscape on the edge of the industrial city of Neunkirchen. Dreamnight is just one of many events per year — Sankt Martin, Halloween, and the Advent Zoo complement the program.