DreamNight 2023

Reid Park Zoo invites you to be a part of the wonder and joy of “DreamNight at the Zoo.”

On Saturday, September 16, Reid Park Zoo is hosting a one-of-a-kind, private event for some very special kids in Southern Arizona! This exclusive evening is for children with special health care needs, children with disabilities, their parents and siblings. This event is for children and their families to experience their Zoo free of charge and without concern for social stigma and issues related to accessibility. DreamNight at the Zoo originated at the Rotterdam Zoo in the Netherlands and is now held at over 300 institutions in 35 countries.

Special activities for 2023 DreamNight include:

• Animal Encounters
• Zoo Keeper Chats
• Arts and Crafts Activities
• Face Painting and Glitter Tattoos
• Carousel Rides
• Make Your Own Jewelry
• Sit In A Fire Truck
• Chat With Some of Our Local College Sports Teams
• Interactive Docent Stations
• Photo Booth
• Cafe and Gift Shop will be open
• Pictures with intergalactic characters, superheroes, pirates and princesses
• And so much more…!

If you feel that your family is part of the community in which DreamNight seeks to serve, please RSVP at (520) 837-8223.

History of DreamNight

The concept for “Dreamnight at the Zoo” originated in 1996 at the Rotterdam Zoo (Netherlands) when animal keeper, Peter van der Wulp, acknowledged how rarely children diagnosed with cancer were able to visit the zoo. Peter knew that the families of these medically frail children often had other expenses to meet, had difficulty finding the free time to visit and the obstacle of being stared at or dealing with people’s reactions were reasons to stay away. In response to these dilemmas, the Rotterdam Zoo developed an event where these children and their families could have a relaxing and fun experience at the zoo and Peter’s idea has spawned a worldwide phenomenon.

Currently, there are over 300 institutions in 35 countries that participate by hosting Dreamnight at the Zoo and Reid Park Zoo (along with  Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum ) believes that this event is one small way to give back to the Tucson community.

Thank you to our generous sponsor of DreamNight