Magical Worlds of Light Bergzoo Halle

When Halle Shines in Winter

The Bergzoo Halle is Germany's only hillside zoo — an animal park established in 1901, whose enclosures nestle against the slopes of the Reilsberg, on the banks of the Saale river in the independent city of Halle (Saale). In the state of Saxony-Anhalt, it is one of the oldest zoos and has been celebrating a second winter season since 2018: the Magical Worlds of Light. What began as an experimental light project is now Germany's largest seasonal light world event with over 15,000 LED lights and more than a million visitors.

The Concept

Each season has its own theme. 2025/26: 'Fantasy Island' — images from books, films, and computer games, such as hobbits, dragons, phoenixes, and mythical creatures. The light installations wind along the zoo's circular path, illuminating rocks, trees, paths, bodies of water, and animal enclosures. Some animals are active (wolf pack, nocturnal birds of prey), most are resting — the light worlds are primarily a walkable art installation, not a classic zoo visit.

More Than Just Lights

On several weekends, there is live programming: fire artists, mulled wine stands, curated music sets. Families with children receive scavenger hunts and craft stations. Those who want to combine experiences can book a combo ticket with a zoo day plus the light world — and experience Halle once in daylight, and once in its full splendor of lights.