Love is in the air at Emerald Park this Valentine's week

If you're looking for a Valentine's outing that doesn't involve overpriced set menus or fighting for a restaurant booking, Emerald Park might just have the answer. This theme park and zoo is marking the season of love with some genuinely sweet experiences for couples, families and anyone who fancies a day out that's a bit different.

Watching animals tucking into heart-shaped treats while the kids run wild sounds like a pretty solid Valentine's plan to us.

The zoo animals are feeling the love

To celebrate Valentine's week, the dedicated keepers at Emerald Park Zoo have been spoiling their 250-plus residents with specially prepared love-inspired enrichment. Think heart-shaped treats and Valentine's themed surprises designed to keep the animals entertained and engaged.

Among those enjoying the romantic spoils are alpacas Mouse and Lab, Amur leopard Hugo, hornbill Albert and a lively gang of meerkats including Grayson, Wayne and Jason. The zoo's silvery marmoset family also got in on the action. Honey, Dante, Gerlat and their adorable baby twins were all spotted enjoying the Valentine's treats.

Meerkats get into the Valentine's spirit at the zoo.

It's genuinely heart-warming stuff. And let's be honest, there's something deeply relatable about watching a lemur investigate a pink gift bag with the same enthusiasm your toddler shows for an Amazon delivery.

Retro drive-in movies for all ages

If you fancy something a little more nostalgic, Emerald Park is hosting a Retro Drive-In Movie experience this Valentine's weekend. Taking place on Saturday 14th February, you can catch a film from the comfort of your own car with hot food, snacks and drinks available on site.

The line-up has something for everyone. Toy Story kicks off at 3pm for the little ones, followed by The Greatest Showman at 6pm if you fancy a singalong. And for those managing a rare child-free evening? Dirty Dancing at 9pm. Nobody puts baby in the corner… or in the back seat, we suppose.

It's a lovely throwback vibe and perfect if you want to do something as a family without the usual cinema chaos of sticky floors and overpriced popcorn. Plus the kids can fall asleep in the back during the credits and you can carry them straight to bed. Parenting win.

Zoo Walks for a chilled Valentine's

Not everyone wants big romantic gestures. Sometimes the best Valentine's Day is just… a nice walk? If that sounds more your speed, Emerald Park's new Zoo Walk might be exactly what you're after.

Available on select dates throughout February and March (including Valentine's Day itself), the Zoo Walk lets you enjoy a peaceful stroll through the zoo and playgrounds at your own pace. It's ideal for couples who want a relaxed outdoor date, friends catching up or families who just need some fresh air and animal encounters.

Priced at €10, it's also pretty budget-friendly. And here's a nice bonus: everyone who attends a Zoo Walk will get €10 off Return All Access tickets for any visit to Emerald Park in 2026. So you're basically locking in a future family day out while you're at it.

A Hornbill poses with a Valentine's Day treat.

Mark your calendars for the full reopening

If you're already dreaming of warmer days and proper theme park adventures, Emerald Park will fully reopen on Saturday 21st March. That's when you'll be able to enjoy over 45 thrill-seeking rides and attractions alongside the zoo.

But for now, the Valentine's offerings are a lovely way to shake off the February blues. Whether you're after animal enrichment cuteness, a nostalgic movie night or just a simple walk in the fresh air… there's something here that doesn't involve cooking a fancy dinner or panic-buying roses from the petrol station.

For more information and full terms and conditions, visit www.emeraldpark.ie.