The Exotic Zoo in Telford, Shropshire, will host a night time festival on May 23, 2026, which organisers expect to increase evening visitor numbers by 20 per cent. This event aims to bring more people into the town centre to support local shops and restaurants.
The event, named Night time at the Zoo, will be held at the wildlife park in Telford Town Park. It will feature live music, food stalls, and the chance to see animals that are active at night, such as owls, skunks, and genets.
Nearby businesses in the Southwater leisure hub and the Telford Centre are expected to benefit from the increase in visitors. To help those attending, parking in several council-run car parks around the town centre is free of charge after 5:00 PM.
Scott Adams, the Managing Director of the zoo, said that selling tickets early for these events is vital for the organisation. He explained that this income helps the small zoo pay for the care of its animals during the more expensive winter months.
While evening parking is free in some locations, visitors are reminded that parking charges were increased in 2025 for other council areas near the park, such as Dark Lane. This change could affect where people choose to park when they attend the festival.
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