Wildly unique Succot first for London Zoo

In an historic first, London Zoo is inviting the Jewish community to celebrate Succot in its very own sukkah.

The sukkah will be available for families between Monday 2 and Friday 6 October to picnic and pray in, while they spend the day exploring the historic conservation zoo and learning about its 14,000 animals.

The zoo will also add a strictly kosher pizza station and snacks to its catering arrangements during the festival.

The project was initiated by ZSL’s (Zoological Society of London) new CEO Matthew Gould.

Matthew was the first Jewish British ambassador to Israel, where he put a sukkah for the first time in the garden of the ambassadorial residence in Ramat Gan.

The London Zoo Sukkah is a joint project between London Zoo and South Hampstead Synagogue, and will be decorated by children from the synagogue to help bring the celebration to life.  The zoo has been advised by Rabbi Shlomo Levin, to ensure that it is halachically compliant.

Gould said: “London Zoo is the perfect place for Sukkot.  Our animals and beautiful gardens offer a powerful connection to nature.  And our conservation work is a wonderful example of tikkun olam.

“I am profoundly grateful to Rabbi Shlomo and everyone at South Hampstead shul for their support in creating the first London Zoo sukkah. We are looking forward to welcoming Jewish families from every part of the community to the Zoo.  Just make sure you book in advance.”

Rabbi Shlomo Levin said: “We are thrilled to partner with London Zoo for this imaginative project that will greatly enhance the experience of Jewish families visiting the zoo during Chol Hamo’ed. We look forward to the wholehearted support of the whole Jewish community to this first time ever initiative.”

London Zoo is the oldest scientific zoo in the world and home to dozens of threatened species including Sumatran tigers, Asiatic lions and Humboldt penguins.

All proceeds from tickets to Succot at London Zoo will support ZSL’s vital work for wildlife in the UK and overseas.

Entry to the sukkah will be free with zoo entry. All tickets to London Zoo must be booked in advance.

Visitors can book now at www.londonzoo.org/Sukkot