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Valentine’s Day Kids Night Out at Central Florida Zoo: A Perfect Date Night Solution for Parents

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Looking for Valentine’s Day Plans That Work for the Whole Family?

Valentine’s Day often comes with a familiar challenge for parents: how to enjoy a date night while making sure the kids are having fun and staying safe. This year, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has a thoughtful solution with its special Valentine’s-themed Kids Night Out event — designed to give parents peace of mind and kids a night they’ll actually look forward to.

Taking place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, this annual drop-off program gives families the best of both worlds: quality time for parents and an exciting, supervised Valentine celebration for kids.

Valentine’s Day Kids Night Out Central Florida Zoo

What Is Kids Night Out at Central Florida Zoo?

Kids Night Out is a four-hour, fully supervised drop-off program created specifically for children ages 5 to 12. While parents head out for dinner or date night plans, kids enjoy a Valentine-themed evening filled with hands-on activities, animal experiences, and creative fun inside the Zoo.

This special Valentine’s edition is themed “Wild About You!” and turns the Zoo into a festive space just for kids to celebrate.

Event Details at a Glance

When:
Saturday, February 14, 2026
6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Where:
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
3755 W. Seminole Blvd.
Sanford, FL 32771

Who:
Children ages 5 to 12
Drop-off only (no parents during event hours)

What Will Kids Experience During the Evening?

The Valentine’s Kids Night Out is carefully planned to keep kids engaged, active, and smiling from start to finish. According to the Zoo, activities include:

  • Valentine-themed games and group activities
  • Creating animal valentines
  • Up-close animal encounters
  • A high-energy dance party
  • A Valentine-themed craft project
  • A snack to keep kids fueled and happy

The evening begins at the Zoo’s Discovery Center and is designed to balance fun, learning, and social time in a safe and structured environment.

Why Parents Love This Valentine’s Day Option

For many Central Florida families, finding reliable childcare on Valentine’s Day can be challenging. Kids Night Out at Central Florida Zoo solves that problem by offering:

  • A trusted, supervised environment
  • A fun alternative to staying home
  • A built-in Valentine celebration for kids
  • A true stress-free date night option for parents

It’s a win-win situation — parents get time to reconnect, and kids get a memorable night of their own.

Pricing and Registration

The cost for Kids Night Out is:

  • $32 per child for Annual Pass Holders
  • $37 per child for non-pass holders

Space is limited, and advance registration is required. This popular annual event often fills up, so families are encouraged to register early.

To register and learn more, visit:
https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/event/kids-night-out

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a drop-off event?
Yes. This is a supervised drop-off program for children only.

What ages are allowed?
Children must be between 5 and 12 years old to participate.

Will food be provided?
A snack is included as part of the evening.

Is this a one-time event?
Yes. This is a special Valentine’s Day edition of the Zoo’s Kids Night Out program.

Do parents stay on-site?
No. Parents drop off their children and return for pickup at 10:00 p.m.

Why This Annual Event Is a Valentine’s Day Favorite in Central Florida

The Central Florida Zoo’s Kids Night Out has become a go-to solution for parents who want to celebrate Valentine’s Day without the stress of last-minute childcare. With animal encounters, themed activities, and a fun group setting, kids get their own special night while parents enjoy theirs.

It’s a creative way to make Valentine’s Day work for the entire family — and one that continues to grow in popularity each year.

Key Takeaways

  • Kids Night Out is a supervised Valentine’s drop-off event for kids ages 5–12
  • It takes place at Central Florida Zoo on February 14, 2026
  • Parents get a worry-free date night
  • Kids enjoy animals, games, crafts, and a dance party
  • Registration is required and space is limited

For families looking to balance romance and responsibility this Valentine’s Day, Central Florida Zoo’s Kids Night Out offers a simple, fun, and reliable solution.