As the days grow shorter and the park becomes dark early, everything at ARTIS this winter revolves around darkness. From nocturnal animals and starry skies to special workshops and evening openings – there is plenty to experience both during the day and at night. The Groote Museum and Micropia also offer activities for visitors of all ages connected to the theme of darkness.
During the day, discover how animals and plants follow their day-and-night rhythm and join interactive activities that show how essential the night is for all living things.
In the evening, ARTIS transforms into a completely different world during eight exclusive “Darkness at ARTIS” evenings in December and January. When the sun sets, the park becomes darker than the rest of the city. Stars begin to shine, animals awaken and your senses sharpen. At ARTIS, darkness is not a limitation, but a new way of seeing.
Practical information – Darkness at ARTIS
• Location: ARTIS-Park
• Dates: 13, 20, 21, 27, 28 December 2025 and 2, 3, 4 January 2026
• Start time slots: 5.00 pm | 5.45 pm | 6.30 pm | 7.15 pm | 8.00 pm
• Closing time: 10.30 pm
• Ticket prices: Regular €18 | ARTIS members €10 | Students €12.50