Dreams Come True at the Zoo

June 03, 2011

For one special night, children with chronic illness and disabilities from the Stollery Children’s Hospital will spend time getting closer to the animals at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Now in its fourth year, Dreamnight at the Zoo will treat over 1,500 guests to an evening of fun and laughter.

“The Edmonton Valley Zoo goes out of its way to accommodate all children and make the evening magical for the entire family,” said Dianne Tuterra, Child Life team leader at the Stollery Children’s Hospital. “The hard work and dedication that go into this event are to be applauded, as it does make a difference in the lives of the families it touches.”

In addition to special animal encounters, guests will be treated to musicians, face painters, magic shows and more. And while these children are already too familiar with hospitals, they may get a kick out of behind-the-scenes tours of the zoo’s new veterinary hospital.

“Of all the events we plan at the zoo, this is my favourite,” says Tyler Pollock, special events coordinator at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. “We want everyone who comes to the zoo to have an engaging and memorable experience. Making the zoo accessible to these special guests is something we look forward to each year.”

Dreamnight at the Zoo started at the Rotterdam Zoo in Holland in 1996 as a way for chronically ill and disabled children and their families to experience a night at the zoo free of charge. The Edmonton Valley Zoo is proud to be among the more than 200 zoos, aquariums and parks worldwide which host this annual event. 

 

For more information:

Tyler Pollock

Edmonton Valley Zoo

Title	Special Events Coordinator
Telephone	780-496-2982