Great Backyard Bird Count
2025-02-15 09:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York)
Friday, February 14 • 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Saturday, February 14 • 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Join educators as we participate in the 28th annual Great Backyard Bird Count! This interactive experience is perfect for bird lovers of all ages and skill levels! Participants will identify and count local birds in order to help create a real-time snapshot of where they are migrating and living. The Great Backyard Bird Count takes place across the country, and helps avian researchers gather information to better protect wild birds for the future! This program is FREE, but registration is required. If you plan to explore the zoo after the program, zoo admission is required.

Register Here

Nature Explorers - Bird Watching
2025-04-24 10:15 - 10:45
In this program, participants will learn about the tools and techniques used for birdwatching and why keeping track of birds is essential for science and conservation. They’ll also get to meet a native bird up close.
Nature Explorers – Bird Watching

Thursday, April 24 | 10:15 AM
Program locations are sent before classes.

Member Tickets
Non-Member Tickets
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This program is part of our Nature Explorers Series which offer exciting outdoor adventures designed for children ages 3–5. Each 30–45 minute session introduces young learners to a new topic with engaging activities like up-close animal encounters, crafts, storytelling, and interactive lessons. Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized experience.
An adult must accompany each child during the program. Zoo admission is required for adults & children; program registration is required for children only. Pricing includes Zoo admission, covers the cost of materials, and supports the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Program Pricing
Become a member and save on tickets!
Member Price
$7.95 Per Person
Non-Member Price
$19.95 Per Person

Nature Explorers - Dinosaurs
2025-05-01 10:15 - 10:45
Participants will discover how prehistoric giants lived, what adaptations helped them survive, and how we learn about them today. They’ll also learn about different types of dinosaurs and meet a modern-day animal considered a living relative of these ancient creatures!
Nature Explorers – Dinosaurs

Thursday, May 1 | 10:15 AM
Program locations are sent before classes.

Member Tickets
Non-Member Tickets
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This program is part of our Nature Explorers Series which offer exciting outdoor adventures designed for children ages 3–5. Each 30–45 minute session introduces young learners to a new topic with engaging activities like up-close animal encounters, crafts, storytelling, and interactive lessons. Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized experience.
An adult must accompany each child during the program. Registration is required for adults and participants. Pricing includes Zoo admission, covers the cost of materials, and supports the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Program Pricing
Become a member and save on tickets!
Member Price
$7.95 Per Person
Non-Member Price
Adults: $31.95 | Children: $28.95​

Centennial Saturdays
2025-05-03 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-06-07 12:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-05 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-08-02 10:00 - 14:00
We’re extending our Centennial Celebration through 2025! Join in the festivities with your family and friends as we continue to commemorate our special milestone with a series of exciting events. Enjoy live entertainment, indulge in a delicious birthday treat, and be amazed by our captivating animal shows. Plus – the first 100 guests will receive a special giveaway item!

Our Centennial Saturday events are free to attend with zoo admission.
This event is free for yearly members. Community Passes are not accepted for this event.

Dates:

May 3
June 7
July 5
August 2
September 6

Event Details:

Free birthday treat (while supplies last)
The first 100 guests will receive a special giveaway item
Keeper Chats
Andrew Scharff (Stilt Walker) 10 AM – 1 PM
Live Music at Bison Stage | 11 AM – 2 PM
June 7 – Christine Kinslow
July 7 – Mike & Will Duo

May The 4th Be With You
2025-05-04 14:00 - 16:00
A craft from a galaxy far, far away recently landed in the zoo parking lot! Off of it came members of Garrison Carida of the 501st Legion to meet you at the zoo on Sunday, May 4th from 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM!
May The 4th Be With You is free to attend with paid Zoo admission.

Characters subject to change but may include Boba Fett, Stormtroopers, an Endor Biker Scout and Kylo Ren. Characters from the 501st Legion and the Central PA Jedi Sith Alliance.

Car Seat Check
2025-05-16 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-05-28 10:00 - 17:00
We’re partnering with the Pennsylvania State Police to bring you free car seat safety checks. Officer personnel certified as Child Passenger Safety Technicians will be on site conducting complimentary child seat fittings. At an event, caregivers can have their car seats checked for suitability, receive instruction on proper installation, and have seat(s) installed. This service is free and no appointment is required. The event will be held in the Zoo’s parking lot. Learn more about the program at the State’s website.

Breakfast with the Giraffes
2025-05-17 08:15 - 10:00, 2025-06-21 08:15 - 10:00, 2025-06-22 08:15 - 10:00, 2025-07-26 08:15 - 10:00, 2025-07-27 08:15 - 10:00 | Elmwood Park Zoo, PA, United States
We’re giving the most important meal of the day a BIG upgrade! Enjoy a delicious outdoor breakfast buffet, right next to our three towering giraffes. After you’ve cleared your plate, you’ll enjoy an exclusive giraffe feeding! Space is limited for this event, so don’t delay in purchasing your tickets!

Purchase Tickets

Dates:
8:15 AM to 10:00 AM
September: 20
October: 18 & 19

Menu:
Scrambled Eggs
Sausage
Turkey Sausage
Breakfast Potatoes
Waffles and Toppings
Fresh Fruit
Cookies
Cash bar of beer, wine, and seltzer available

Pricing:

Yearly Member: $45.00 pp
Non- Member: $50.00 pp
Under 2: $12.00 pp

Purchase Tickets
Breakfast with the Giraffes will be held rain or shine

BREAKFAST WITH THE GIRAFFES IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Please bring your own highchairs, we have a limited amount and it is first come first served.
*Parties/families wishing to sit together must register under the same name. Those who do not do so at least 48 hours in advance will run the risk of sitting separate from the other party they wish to sit with.
OUR POLICY: NO REFUNDS OR RESCHEDULING. BREAKFAST WITH THE GIRAFFES IS A RAIN OR SHINE EVENT. ELMWOOD PARK ZOO HAS THE RIGHT TO CANCEL, CHANGE, OR POSTPONE ANY PROGRAM/EVENT. IN THE EVENT THAT THE ZOO CANCELS THE PROGRAM/EVENT, TICKET HOLDERS WILL BE CONTACTED DIRECTLY.

Nature Explorers - Decomposers
2025-05-22 10:15 - 10:45
In this program, participants will discover what decomposers are and why they’re essential for a healthy ecosystem. Through hands-on activities, they’ll see how these creatures break down organic matter and keep the environment clean. Plus, at the end of the program, they’ll meet a real decomposer up close.
Nature Explorers – Decomposers

Thursday, May 22 | 10:15 AM
Program locations are sent before classes.

Member Tickets
Non-Member Tickets
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This program is part of our Nature Explorers Series which offer exciting outdoor adventures designed for children ages 3–5. Each 30–45 minute session introduces young learners to a new topic with engaging activities like up-close animal encounters, crafts, storytelling, and interactive lessons. Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized experience.
An adult must accompany each child during the program. Registration is required for adults and participants. Pricing includes Zoo admission, covers the cost of materials, and supports the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Program Pricing
Become a member and save on tickets!
Member Price
$7.95 Per Person
Non-Member Price
Adults: $31.95 | Children: $28.95​

Memorial Day at EPZ
2025-05-26 10:00 - 17:00
The Zoo will be open on Memorial Day (Monday, May 26) from 10 AM – 5 PM.
Featuring entertainment at Bison Stage by Joey DeNoble from 11 AM – 2 PM
Purchase Zoo Admission

Nature Explorers - Invasive Species
2025-06-05 10:15 - 10:45
Participants will learn the difference between native and invasive species, how they impact their environment, and meet an invasive animal species that lives at Elmwood Park Zoo!
Nature Explorers – Invasive Species

Thursday, June 5 | 10:15 AM
Program locations are sent before classes.

Member Tickets
Non-Member Tickets
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This program is part of our Nature Explorers Series which offer exciting outdoor adventures designed for children ages 3–5. Each 30–45 minute session introduces young learners to a new topic with engaging activities like up-close animal encounters, crafts, storytelling, and interactive lessons. Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized experience.
An adult must accompany each child during the program. Registration is required for adults and participants. Pricing includes Zoo admission, covers the cost of materials, and supports the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Program Pricing
Become a member and save on tickets!
Member Price
$7.95 Per Person
Non-Member Price
Adults: $31.95 | Children: $28.95​

Father's Day
2025-06-15 10:00 - 17:00
Happy Father’s Day! On Sunday, June 15, dads can enjoy FREE zoo admission with the purchase of a paid child’s ticket* and their first drink at Zoo Brew on us! Plus you’re invited to enjoy live music by Christine Kinslow from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, raffles, and more throughout the day.
Community Passes are not accepted for this event.
Try Our Newest Brew – We’ll be serving our newest Zoo Beer crafted by 2SP Brewing Company for the first time during the event!

*Discount only offered onsite at the zoo admission window.
Discount does not apply to online purchases and cannot be combined with any other offer.
Offer only valid on 6.15.25

Nature Explorers - Raptors
2025-06-19 10:15 - 10:45
Participants will learn what sets raptors apart from other bird species, explore their unique adaptations, and meet a raptor that calls Pennsylvania home.
Nature Explorers – Raptors

Thursday, June 19 | 10:15 AM
Program locations are sent before classes.

Member Tickets
Non-Member Tickets
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This program is part of our Nature Explorers Series which offer exciting outdoor adventures designed for children ages 3–5. Each 30–45 minute session introduces young learners to a new topic with engaging activities like up-close animal encounters, crafts, storytelling, and interactive lessons. Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized experience.
An adult must accompany each child during the program. Registration is required for adults and participants. Pricing includes Zoo admission, covers the cost of materials, and supports the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Program Pricing
Become a member and save on tickets!
Member Price
$7.95 Per Person
Non-Member Price
Adults: $31.95 | Children: $28.95​

School's Out Weekend
2025-06-21 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-22 10:00 - 17:00
School’s Out for Summer— Celebrate the end of the school year with a family trip to Elmwood Park Zoo on Saturday, June 21 and Sunday, June 22. The weekend will be jam packed with entertainment for the whole family and if you bring your report card, you’ll receive $2.00 off attractions!
Community Passes are not accepted for this event.

PURCHASE ZOO ADMISSION

Date & Time:
Saturday, June 21 & Sunday, June 22
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
This event is free to attend with zoo admission.

Event Details:
Live Music at our Stony Creek Stage (by Zoo Brew)
Present your report card for $2.00 off zoo attractions (giraffe feedings & carousel rides)

Live Music:
Saturday:
Joey Pahl | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday:
Joey DeNoble | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Keeper Chats:
June 21st
11:00 AM | World Giraffe Day Chat! | Savanna Station
2:30 PM | Grasslands
June 22nd
11:00 AM | Barn
2:30 PM | Harmony Hideaway

PURCHASE ZOO ADMISSION

Fourth of July
2025-07-04 10:00 - 20:00
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – CLICK HERE

Join us for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration with FREE admission* for all guests! Enjoy live music, unique animal guests, special appearances by historical impersonators, and more. The Zoo will be open extended hours until 8:00 PM!
*Zoo guests must register for free admission.
Register for 4th of July Admission

Please note, animal exhibits, including Trail of the Jaguar, Habitat HQ and Harmony Hideaway close at 5 PM. The exhibits in our Wetlands area – Alligator, River Otter, Porcupine, and more, close at 5 PM. Animals with indoor access, including Giraffe, Zebra, Bison, Red Panda, and Elk – will be shifted inside at 5 PM. The Zoo’s Welcome Center and its exhibits inside will remain open until 8 PM.

Event Details
Fourth of July at EPZ | Free Admission For All Guests*
*Guests must register for free admission
Friday, July 4th 2025 | 10 AM – 8 PM (special extended hours)
Barrel Train Rides
10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Carousel
10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Education Programs
Wild Encounters | 11:00 AM | Zoo Bowl Theater
Animal greets will take place throughout the Zoo
Face Paint
10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Giraffe Feeding
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
12:30 PM – 1:45 PM
2:45 PM – 4:00 PM
Historical Impersonators
Martha Washington | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Benjamin Franklin | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Betsy Ross | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Keeper Chats
Giraffe Keeper Chat | 11:30 AM
Live Music
Tony Alosi
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Stony Creek Stage
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Stony Creek Stage
Puppet Show
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Stony Creek Stage
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Stony Creek Stage
Register for 4th of July Admission

Fourth of July – Know Before You Go
Registration
Guests are encouraged to register before their visit for the available times remaining on our registration page here. If your preferred time is not listed, it means that we have reached our registration capacity for that time slot. A limited number of walk up registrations may be available.
Parking / Parking Shuttles
We expect all onsite lots to fill early and remain at capacity throughout the day. Our lot attendants will be directing drivers to offsite parking when our lots reach capacity. Offsite parking is available at the Logan Square lot on Johnson Highway and Markley Street, as well as at the Eisenhower School on Coolidge Blvd. Both lots will be serviced by shuttles that will transport guests to the Zoo’s main entrance. A limited amount of street parking may be available on a first come basis.
Illegal Parking
Norristown Police will be patrolling the area throughout the day, and vehicles parked illegally will be fined and towed at their owner’s expense. Please respect our neighbors and avoid parking on their lawns and blocking their sidewalks and driveways.
Animal Exhibits
Animal exhibits, including Trail of the Jaguar, Habitat HQ and Harmony Hideaway close at 5 PM. The exhibits in our Wetlands area – Alligator, River Otter, Porcupine, and more, close at 5 PM. Animals with indoor access, including Giraffe, Zebra, Bison, Red Panda, and Elk – will be shifted inside at 5 PM. The Zoo’s Welcome Center and its exhibits inside will remain open until 8 PM.

Fireworks
Elmwood Park Zoo is not responsible for the fireworks show that is scheduled to take place in neighboring Elmwood Park at approximately 9:30 PM. Our gates will close to guests at 7:30 PM, and all remaining guests will be asked to leave by 8:00 PM.

BINGO For Rhinos
2025-07-08 18:00 - 20:30
Win fabulous prizes and support Elmwood Park Zoo’s American Association of Zookeepers (EPZ AAZK) at B-I-N-G-O for Rhinos!
Event proceeds will go to protecting rhinos and their habitats in Africa through the following charities:
Lewa Wildlife ConservancyInternational Rhino FoundationAction for Cheetahs in Kenya

Let’s have some fun and make a difference together!

Purchase Tickets

This is a strict 21 and over event. Zoo Brew Beer Garden will have alcoholic beverages and light snacks available for purchase.

Nature Explorers - Camouflage
2025-07-10 10:15 - 10:45
Discover how and why animals use camouflage to survive and put your camouflage skills to the test. At the end of the program, you’ll meet an animal that’s a true master of disguise!
Nature Explorers – Camouflage

Thursday, July 10 | 10:15 AM
Program locations are sent before classes.

Member Tickets
Non-Member Tickets
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This program is part of our Nature Explorers Series which offer exciting outdoor adventures designed for children ages 3–5. Each 30–45 minute session introduces young learners to a new topic with engaging activities like up-close animal encounters, crafts, storytelling, and interactive lessons. Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized experience.
An adult must accompany each child during the program. Registration is required for adults and participants. Pricing includes Zoo admission, covers the cost of materials, and supports the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Program Pricing
Become a member and save on tickets!
Member Price
$7.95 Per Person
Non-Member Price
Adults: $31.95 | Children: $28.95​

World Snake Day Featuring Phang
2025-07-16 11:00 - 13:30
Slither over to the zoo to celebrate World Snake Day with us and the Philadelphia Union mascot Phang on July 16! Phang will join our Educators for a special Wild Encounter all about the scaly reptiles of honor, and will be available for photo ops after the encounter. See the full schedule below for the day’s complete list of events and programs.
This program is free with paid Zoo admission.

World Snake Day Featuring Phang
Philadelphia Union Mascot
Wednesday, July 16 | 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Schedule
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Wild Encounter snake program with Phang photo ops | Zoo Bowl Theater
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Additional photo ops with Phang | Location TBD

Nature Explorers - Scale and Tails
2025-07-24 10:15 - 10:45
Learn what makes reptiles unique and discover their amazing adaptations. At the end of the program, you’ll meet a scaly friend who lives at the zoo.
Nature Explorers – Scales and Tails

Thursday, July 24 | 10:15 AM
Program locations are sent before classes.
Member Tickets

Non-Member Tickets
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This program is part of our Nature Explorers Series which offer exciting outdoor adventures designed for children ages 3–5. Each 30–45 minute session introduces young learners to a new topic with engaging activities like up-close animal encounters, crafts, storytelling, and interactive lessons. Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized experience.
An adult must accompany each child during the program. Registration is required for adults and participants. Pricing includes Zoo admission, covers the cost of materials, and supports the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Program Pricing
Become a member and save on tickets!
Member Price
$7.95 Per Person
Non-Member Price
Adults: $31.95 | Children: $28.95​

Christmas In July
2025-07-26 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-07-27 11:00 - 15:00
Santa’s coming to town in July with activities at the Zoo on July 26 & 27 and wild savings July 16 – 31.
Event Details
Christmas in July | July 26 & 27 | 11 AM – 3 PM
Santa Greets | Throughout the Zoo
Snap a photo with Mr. Claus himself! Santa will be wandering around the Zoo during the entire event.

Make your own snowman sundae with Mrs. Claus from 11 AM – 4 PM | $15.00 per sundae
Build your snowman with three scoops of vanilla ice cream, pretzel sticks, licorice, M&Ms, chocolate chips, and candy corn.

Philadelphia Union Spirit Day
2025-08-16 10:00 - 17:00
Wear your Philadelphia Union gear and get $5 off admission as we celebrate our favorite soccer team! Plus – don’t miss your chance to snap a pic with Phang, the team’s one-of-a-kind mascot.
Check out the full schedule of events below. DOOP! 💙💛
This event is free to attend with paid Zoo admission. Community Passes are not accepted for this event.
Philadelphia Union Spirit Day Schedule
Saturday, August 16 | 10 AM – 5 PM
Snake Keeper Chat | 11:00 AM – 11:15 AM | Habitat HQ
Phang Meet & Greet | 12 PM – 1 PM | Welcome Center
Inflatable Soccer Games | 10 AM – 5 PM | Zoo South Side
Meet our Ambassador snakes throughout the zoo during the event!
