It is exactly 100 years on 1 June, 2025 since the date was proclaimed International Children’s Day. And, as is the tradition, it is going to be a colourful day with lots of different events for the children throughout Bulgaria, with Sofia being the focus of attention – of the public and the media - throughout the day.

One of the favourite spots to spend children’s day is the Sofia Zoo – the biggest and oldest zoo on the Balkan Peninsula, with more than 300 animals of 280 different species. On this day admission will be free for children and adults. 

There is a record number of newborn animals at the zoo, and that brings in thousands of visitors. 

In 2024, two baby lions were born there, as well as eland and addax antelopes, Asian small-clawed otters and several barbary sheep. But one of Sofia Zoo’s most prized additions are two baby Eurasian lynxes, an endangered species, born almost one year ago.

• Bulgaria in pictures
• Sofia Zoo rescues distressed wild and exotic animals

Compiled by Ivan Gergov
Translated and posted by Milena Daynova
Photos: zoosofia.eu, BTA