Twilight at Taronga

words by o.k. glynn

We have some incredible open-air venues in Sydney, places that tourists and locals alike flock to in the thousands, but nothing quite compares as an all-rounder attraction like our very own Taronga Zoo. Set across the water from the centre of Sydney, Taronga plays home to exotic animals from all over the world; you catch a ferry across the water, and with the city skyline at your back, you can explore the world mapped out in creatures you can’t even pronounce the names of.

Set across the water from the centre of Sydney, Taronga plays home to exotic animals from all over the world; you catch a ferry across the water, and with the city skyline at your back, you can explore the world mapped out in creatures you can’t even pronounce the names of.

Add in music and twilight and you’re set for a damn fine time.

From January 27 through to March 11, Taronga will play home to the uniquely summer event Twilight at Taronga.

The line-up this year plays host to some sensational home-town acts, such as Peter Garret and the Alter Egos, The Rubens (one show has already sold out!), Killing Heidi and George will be in for some memorable reunions, and the effervescent country songbird Kasey Chambers.

From across the shores, we have the likes of the Obama endorsed James Morrison Big Band, Tegan and Sara, Martha Wainwright and the Scottish alt-rockers Teenage Fanclub.

There are acts spanning the genres, from family favourites Björn Again, hazy rock legend Kurt Vile, and a wicked mash-up of The Living End and a string quartet for a special Twangin’ at Twilight stripped back show.

To see the full list of performers, their dates and ticket purchases jump on HERE.

When you purchase your ticket, it will include free same-day entry to Taronga Zoo, free return ferry travel from 5:15 pm from Circular Quay, bus transfers from Taronga Wharf to the main Zoo entrance, and post-show buses to Spit Junction and Mosman.

However, despite getting these little throw-ins, you also get to know that you’re single-handedly contributing to Taronga Zoo’s efforts for Wildlife conservation. They have dedicated the next 10 years to the conservation of 10 critical species, and the 2017 series will kick-off the global community action tool Wildlife Witness to join in on the fight to eradicate illegal wildlife trade.

So pull up a patch of grass, take advantage of the antipasto hampers and cool drinks, and kick back with the animals as you listen to your favourites – there’s nothing better than knowing you’re doing something good for your soul and good for the planet.

Cheers to that.

Twilight at Taronga runs from January 27 to March 11.