Local services
Between the 1st and the 3rd of February, Debrecen’s iconic park invites all those who want to chase away the winter and celebrate the coming of spring in a special setting, with a colourful programme of events, to a carnival in a special setting, recalling traditions.
The event is based on the day of the bear’s fortune-telling, according to which if the Asiatic black bear sees its shadow, we can expect a long winter. In the spirit of celebrating traditions and nature, the Teddy Bear Carnival aims to bring the traditions associated with carnival to life, while also offering entertainment and knowledge sharing.
A rich programme awaits families over the three days. As the opening day of the Saturday, visitors dressed up for the occasion are invited to a Carnival costume contest, and Uncle Tibi Réti’s carnival show will enhance the atmosphere.
At the craft workshop, which is an essential part of this time, with face painting, mask making, candle dipping and teddy bear sewing classes are also available for the “creative pawed kids”. The Teddy Bear Hospital programme offers the opportunity to help children overcome their fear of doctors and hospital treatments in a playful and interactive way, while introducing them to the basics of healthcare. During their stay, a simulated clinic equipped with medical equipment is set up where children can observe or perform the “treatment” of their own teddy bears, thereby strengthening their trust and willingness to cooperate with healthcare professionals. Children will also be able to experience the carnival atmosphere through fairy tales, with a puppet show and storytelling.
During the event, the exhibition “Teddy Bear World – Zoo Life in Pictures” or the “Bear” book collection on the Samburu Panorama Terrace can be visited. There will also be a Teddy Bear play area.
Visitors can also try out the family teddy bear selfie point, and sample the products of the Tamási apiary, as well as Dobi gingerbread and other teddy bear delicacies.
The festive Animals in Action programme will offer a full day of activities, including bear spotting and sight-feeding, a carnival tour, where visitors can meet red pandas, snouted bears and raccoons. But there will also be animals with striking or special “costumes” for hiding, and visitors can even adopt their favourite species.
The Park encourages visitors to wear their best costume or mask for an even more exhilarating atmosphere, but there will also be opportunities to make fun masks or even noise-making devices and paint animal faces on site.
All program elements are free with a Zoo pass or a Zoo ticket.
Date: 1-3 February
Location: Debrecen Zoo
Source and photo credit: dehir.hu