NORRISTOWN, Pa. (June 30, 2026) — Elmwood Park Zoo is inviting families from across the region to celebrate Independence Day with free admission for all guests on Saturday, July 4, as part of its ongoing participation in the nationwide America 250 initiative. Guests can enjoy an action-packed day of live entertainment, animal experiences, patriotic programming, and extended evening hours.
The Zoo will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., giving visitors an entire day to explore exhibits, enjoy seasonal attractions, and celebrate America’s birthday before heading next door to watch Norristown’s annual fireworks display, shortly after sundown.
Admission is free for all guests, however advance registration is required. Time slots may reach capacity, and guests are encouraged to reserve their tickets early. Parking is also free. Guests can reserve free tickets and view the complete Fourth of July schedule here.
“One of the greatest parts of our mission is creating opportunities for everyone to experience the Zoo,” said Al Zone, CEO of Elmwood Park Zoo. “Thanks to America 250 and the support of the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, we’re able to open our doors to the entire community for another incredible Fourth of July celebration. We hope families make lasting memories together while enjoying wildlife, live entertainment, and everything that makes the Zoo such a special place.”
Throughout the day, guests will enjoy a variety of special activities, including:
– Live music featuring Tony Alosi and MAFIA
– Historical appearances by Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross
– A 16-foot inflatable water slide
– Meet our newest animal additions in the red and gray foxes and Pallas’s cats
– Animal greets and Wild Encounters presented by Action Karate
– Keeper Chats
– Giraffe feeding experiences
– Carousel and barrel train rides
– Face painting
– Zoo Brew beer garden specials and food offerings
The Zoo’s extended hours also allow guests to conveniently transition to the adjacent Elmwood Park ballfields following their visit to enjoy Norristown’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display.
Visitors who experience the Zoo on Independence Day can also take advantage of the Zoo’s best membership offer of the year. Through Wednesday, July 8, guests can purchase an Elmwood Park Zoo membership for 40% off during the Zoo’s Fourth of July Membership Sale. Membership includes unlimited daytime admission for an entire year, exclusive member events and discounts, making it the perfect way for families to continue their adventures long after the holiday weekend.
Elmwood Park Zoo’s America 250 programming continues later this summer with a third free admission day on Labor Day, Monday, September 7.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kyle Gurganious
Director of Marketing
Elmwood Park Zoo
kgurganious@elmwoodparkzoo.org
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ABOUT ELMWOOD PARK ZOO
Elmwood Park Zoo, located in Norristown, Pennsylvania, is home to a diverse collection of species from around the world and is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and providing memorable guest experiences. Open year-round, the Zoo offers up-close animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly attractions including the Zoo Brew Beer Garden, a carousel, and seasonal events. Through hands-on learning opportunities and community programming, Elmwood Park Zoo inspires guests of all ages to connect with wildlife and the natural world. For more information, visit www.elmwoodparkzoo.org