Calendar of Events

May 19 & 20

It’s easy being green! Join us for this annual event in celebration of all things green. The Zoo will come alive with the sights and sounds of conservation including animal talks, outreach booths and hands-on demonstrations.

May 21

Zoological Society members can register starting May 21.  Non-member registration starts May 22.

May 24
Adventure Dinosaur! VIP Premiere

An early glimpse at the 2012 Summer exhibit as it roars onto the Milwaukee County Zoo grounds. Guests will enjoy refreshments and family activities and have the opportunity to go back in time to when dinosaurs ruled the earth before the exhibit opens to the public.

May 26 through Sep 3
Adventure Dinosaur! Special Exhibit

Dinosaurs are one of the most fascinating animals to ever roam the earth. This summer exhibit takes visitors on a prehistoric adventure to uncover many of the dynamic species of dinosaurs that inhabited our land 150 million years ago. Make plans to see more than 20 realistic life-size robotic recreations, moving and rumbling in their tropical outdoor habitat. Exhibit cost is $2.50.

Jun 2 & 3
Scouting the Zoo

The Zoo shines with creativity and resourcefulness as the Milwaukee County Council of Boy Scouts share skills through special demonstrations and activities.

Jun 5 & 6
Prehistoric Preview for Zoo Pass members to Adventure Dinosaur!

Free entry for Zoological Society members to the special summer exhibit, Adventure Dinosaur!, sponsored by Sendik's Food Markets.  Zoological Society members must present their Zoo Pass card and photo ID at the dinosaur exhibit admission booth.  Free admission for Zoological Society members is valid June 5 & 6, 2012, from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. only.

Jun 17
Father's Day

Spending the day at the Zoo with dad will make him feel like he’s king of the jungle! All dads receive free admission.

Jun 23
Jun 27 & Jul 5, 11, 18, 25 & Aug 1
Sunset Zoofari

Summer sizzles at the Zoo during these musical evenings. Performances take place on the Flamingo Patio from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. against the backdrop of our exotic animals.  Reduced admission rates apply.

Jul 10
Platypus Circle Family Picnic

A delightful evening spent under the stars checking out what the animals do when the zoo is usually closed! Platypus members and their families will enjoy a delicious picnic and special surprises in a private location on the grounds and then venture into the Zoo for lots more fun!

Jul. 10, 12 & 13
Kids' Nights for Zoo Pass members
Aug 8 - 11
Aug 16 through Aug 19
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel a la Carte

During our famous “Feast with the Beasts” food and music festival, more than 25 area restaurants will serve up a variety of dishes, as local and national entertainment is showcased on six stages throughout the park. The Zoo is open extended hours for this festival.

Aug 25
Animal Safari

This special behind-the-scenes event is open for animal sponsors and donors.  Get access to areas not normally open to the public. 

Aug 31
Senior Celebration

On this special day, seniors are the stars as visitors 55 and over with I.D. are admitted free. Join us for health and wellness outreach booths, musical performances and bingo.

Sep 8 & 9
Family Farm Weekend

This weekend is devoted to the rich farming heritage of our state. The cornucopia of activity includes a children’s tractor-pull contest, cooking demonstrations and down-home entertainment.

Sep 15
Elephant Appreciation Day

Join us for fun and educational activities highlighting conservation efforts for these majestic, endangered African animals. Discover the HUGE role elephants play in the natural world.

Sep 16
Sep 27
Platypus Circle Annual Recognition Dinner

An evening dedicated to honoring and thanking our treasured Platypus Circle donors. Guests will enjoy an exquisite meal, meet up with old friends and welcome a few new, and be treated to a presentation by a special guest. We will also award the coveted Emu Egg.

Oct 6
Field Trip to Wisconsin's Door County
Oct 19 & 20
Boo at the Zoo

Tiny ghosts and goblins are invited to enjoy a host of Halloween fun during this event. Festivities, including a Halloween maze and colorful crafts, take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Oct 20
Wolf Awareness Day

Wild about wolves? Then join us for this special day celebrating wolves, and the important role they play in our world today. Watch our pack take their daily feeding, see the enrichment items that keep their minds healthy and join in our howling contest. Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Oct 25
Zoo Brew
Oct 26 & 27
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Spooktacular

What could be more fun than to trick-or-treat among our exotic animals?  Ride the North Shore Bank “Ravens Rail Train,” march in the costume parade and catch the “Forest Trail at Wolf Crossing” light show. Hours: Oct. 26: 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 27: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Nov 3
Dec 1
Dec 1
ZSM Members' holiday trip to Christkindlmarket Chicago
Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 & 16
Breakfast & Lunch with Santa

Enjoy a bit of holiday cheer and dine with Jolly St. Nick himself! Breakfast and lunch includes musical entertainment and a special gift for each child. Lunch is served both days; breakfast is served Saturdays only.

Dec 4
Summer in December New Member Family Recruitment

Forget the cold weather and snow and flash back to balmy days and starry nights – potential new Platypus Circle members are invited to an entertaining evening in the US Bank Gathering Place. Where else will you find holiday trees, flamingos, refreshments and live creatures? Click here to request an invitation.

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