Illustration of a house and yard glowing with string lights beside a snowman at dusk (Winterheul)

Winterheul

As darkness falls, the forest of Apenheul transforms into a winter landscape filled with sparkling lights, evocative sounds, and video projections. Visitors stroll along illuminated nature paths featuring projections of 12 native Veluwe animals, including red deer, ermines, wolves, and squirrels. While the zoo's monkeys are asleep for the night, guests can experience the atmospheric woodland setting after dark.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

winterheul.nl

When

Tickets

Children aged 3–12: from €17.50; adults aged 13+: from €18.50 (Early Bird prices through 30 November); children aged 0–2: free, but require a free admission ticket.

Hours

From 16:30.

Parking

A large car park is opposite the entrance to Stadspark Berg & Bos, about a 10-minute walk from Winterheul. There is also an unattended bicycle parking area, just under a 10-minute walk away.

Accessibility

The route has wide, paved paths, though the terrain is hilly in some areas.

Pets

Assistance dogs are welcome; other dogs and animals are not allowed. Visitors are asked to let assistance dogs relieve themselves outside Apenheul.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Apenheul · J.C. Wilslaan 21, 7313HK Apeldoorn, Apeldoorn Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and nature-loving visitors

Vibe

Magical and atmospheric

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Book a half-hour entry slot before visiting, as entry is arranged by timed slots and the final slot is limited.
  • Bring your ticket on your phone so it can be scanned at the entrance without printing it.
  • Allow for the walk from the car park or bicycle parking area to the event entrance, following the Winterheul signs through the park.
  • Dress for an evening outdoors and on a forest route, as Winterheul takes place after dark.
  • If you need a wheelchair, ask about borrowing one at the Park Berg & Bos entrance; the supply is limited and cannot be reserved.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Children aged 0–2 enter free but need a free admission ticket.
  • Early Bird prices are available through 30 November.
  • Holders of an Apenheul 2027 season ticket receive a discount on a Winterheul ticket.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Winterheul suitable for?

The evening experience is described as suitable for young and old.

Do I need to book an entry slot?

Yes. Book a half-hour entry slot; your ticket can be scanned from your phone.

What can visitors see along the route?

The forest features lights, sounds, video and projections of 12 Veluwe animals, including red deer, ermines, wolves and squirrels.

Are the monkeys on view during Winterheul?

No. The monkeys are asleep during the event.

Is the route wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The paths are wide and paved, although some areas are hilly. A limited number of wheelchairs can be borrowed at the entrance to Park Berg & Bos; they cannot be reserved.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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