Have an Adventure at the Zoo with ZSM

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County Zoo offer an array of fun events all year long! There is something for everyone during the year. You can enjoy kids’ events, adults-only fundraisers, members-only events, and holiday celebrations. Your Zoo Pass and Platy membership can even get you into many events for free! Or, use your Zoo Pass and Platy membership to get discounts on fundraising events like Snooze at the Zoo, Ride on the Wild Side, Boo at the Zoo, and more.

Calendar of Events

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Check Out Some of Our

Annual Events

The Annual Zoo Ball

Zoo Ball

Our annual gala, known as the Zoo Ball, is the Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s largest fundraising event of the year! For one magical evening each year, we offer delicious cocktails, gourmet dining, and a night of dancing. This event offers our most extensive auction featuring incredible packages like luxurious dining experiences, exciting travel packages, sporting event tickets, rejuvenating spa specials, and much more!

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Nights in June

Each year, when we round the bend into summer, the Zoological Society puts on Nights in June, a series of members-only evenings where you can enjoy live entertainment, take part in some craft time, and get a chance to check out the summer special exhibit for free. Food is always available for purchase from food trucks and Zoo concession stands, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Sponsor an Animal program!

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Ride on the Wild Side Bike Ride

Can you imagine riding your bike through the Milwaukee County Zoo? With Ride on the Wild Side, adults and children of all ages can enjoy the Zoo on two, three, and sometimes four wheels! Kids can even cruise in the Critter Caravan, a special 2.5-mile kids’ route through the Zoo. After the ride, join us for a snack, some fun craft time, and get a temporary tattoo in the Kids Zone! Seasoned riders with a passion for pedaling can choose one of the distance routes (10-, 17- and 27-mile rides) that start at the Zoo and continue north along the Menomonee River Parkway and the Oak Leaf Trail. After the ride, all participants can park their bikes in the bike corral and enjoy lunch. Registration also includes continental breakfast, a T-shirt, parking, and admission to the Zoo for the day.