Dublin Zoo is saying thank you to the Irish public for their generosity - by offering half price tickets for entry this weekend.
Like everything else at the time, the attraction had to shut its doors thanks to COVID-19 last year, causing fears it may have to close for good.
But the 'Save Dublin Zoo' campaign saw the public raise funds to help the business out and that generosity is now being recognised.
A new red panda sculpture has been unveiled to showcase Dublin Zoo’s gratitude to all supporters of the ‘Save Dublin Zoo’ campaign, without which Dublin Zoo faced potential closure.
This weekend, Dublin Zoo is inviting members of the public to visit the Zoo to enjoy a family-friendly event and to see the new red panda sculpture at the Himalayan Hills habitat.
Visitors will have the chance to enjoy a range of themed educational and fun activities, including zookeeper talks for all ages, from 12-4pm.
Created by award-winning sculptor Stephanie Hess, the red panda sculpture was unveiled as a thank you from Dublin Zoo to the people of Ireland and beyond, who responded by providing generous support to the ‘Save Dublin Zoo’ campaign.
The red panda’s Himalayan Hills habitat was delayed by the challenging events of 2020. Thanks to the overwhelming public support and government funding through the OPW under the remit of Minister Patrick O’Donovan, the relocated and expanded habitat was able to open earlier this year.
Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo, said: “The team at Dublin Zoo is thrilled to reveal the new red panda sculpture and publicly mark our gratitude to all those who supported us through the challenging period which resulted in the ‘Save Dublin Zoo’ fundraising campaign.
"During that time, it was difficult to say whether Dublin Zoo would make it through to experience the incredible milestones of the past two years, including the births of some endangered species. It is only with thanks to the people of Ireland as well as our Government that we have been able to celebrate the opening of the Himalayan Hills habitat, which is now home to the snow leopard and red pandas at Dublin Zoo.
"I am excited to welcome families and friends to mark International Red Panda Day with Dublin Zoo, and hope our visitors take the time to enjoy the new red panda sculpture by award-winning Dublin sculptor, Stephanie Hess.”
Visitors can avail of 50% off tickets on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th September by booking online at www.dublinzoo.ie*.
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