Dreamnight 2016

Over 750 guests enjoyed a magical evening at the zoo on Friday (3 June) as Drusillas Park hosted their annual Dreamnight event, exclusively for critically ill children and those with additional needs, to enjoy with their families. 

Dreamnight is a charity event which takes place around the world on the first Friday of June. Each zoo organises the evening in their own way but in all cases the children are welcomed as VIPs.

At Drusillas Park guests travelled to the event from throughout the South East after receiving tickets from various organisations including Demelza House, Chailey Heritage, Children with Cancer Fund, Chestnut Tree House and The Royal Alexander Hospital, Seaford Down’s Syndrome and Special Needs Support Group, SASBAH and T21 Brighton & Hove.

The evening included special guest appearances from Hello Kitty and The  Controller also popped in to oversee the smooth running of the Thomas & Friends™ railway. A workshop was provided by Jess and Miz’s Circus and DJ Dan Gasser ensured the party was a smash hit.

Volunteers from Pets As Therapy also attended with a group of friendly four-legged friends. Plus there were close animal encounters, face painting, the rare opportunity to see the animals after hours as well as a BBQ with food and drinks supplied by Bidvest Foodservice.  

The Park was decorated with contributions from Paperlane and Tansleys Printers Ltd supplied a souvenir programme for each guest. Plus Southern Events provided a large marquee for the evening in case the weather did not show up. Each child also received a gift, supported by a large number of generous donations.

Drusillas Park’s Managing Director Christine Smith commented: “It’s was another fantastic evening and we hope that everyone enjoyed themselves as much as we did.”

“We are very proud to support the worldwide charity, Dreamnight at the Zoo and put on this exclusive event for so many local children and charities. We would like to say a huge thank you to all the individuals who volunteered their time and services to enable this event to happen. We have had a great deal of support from local businesses, suppliers and other individuals for which we are extremely grateful, including Alfriston Heartstart and our own staff. It is great to be able to provide this opportunity for children who may not otherwise be able to visit the zoo during our usual opening hours.”