The Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary is presently closed.
Why the closure? It’s nesting season for our owls! Our great grey owls, especially the younger members of our parliament, can become protective of their nests and territory during this time.
To support their natural behaviors and prioritize safety for both our birds and visitors, we’re taking a proactive step by temporarily closing the habitat. Thank you for your understanding.
Wild Canada will close early on the following dates to accommodate set up for the Wild After Hours: Polar Bears event (18+). The last entry to the zone will be 4:00 p.m.
Penguin Plunge (indoor) will be closed from February 20 through to May 16, 2024, while we complete upgrades to the building’s mechanical system to ensure it is in tip-top shape for the four species that call it home. Penguins will be viewable outdoors only (weather permitting). Thank you for your understanding.
Special Events
04 OCTOBER 2023 (Calgary, AB) – As the leaves begin to change and a crisp breeze fills the air, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is thrilled to announce a boo-tiful lineup of exciting seasonal events that promise to delight visitors of all ages. From effortless holiday meals to festive fetes, the zoo is the ultimate October destination for foodies, game lovers, and conservation champions looking to embrace the spirit of the season. It’s not time to hibernate just yet – join us in celebrating the magic of fall amidst the captivating backdrop of the zoo!
Harvest Dinner, Dine-In – October 8* | Family-friendly
Spend a fun-filled fall day exploring the zoo with family and friends before cozying up to a hassle-free harvest dinner prepared by the zoo’s award-winning culinary team. Featuring a four-course turkey dinner with a side of festive fares, the time spent with friends and family – instead of in the kitchen – is sure to warm fingers and hearts this holiday season.
Harvest Dinner, Takeaway – October 7, 8, & 9* | Family-friendly
For those looking to celebrate the season from the comfort of their own home while avoiding kitchen chaos, the Harvest Dinner takeaway option serves up a four-course turkey dinner without any of the holiday cooking mess or stress.
Order must be placed by noon the day prior to pick-up. Timed pick-up from the zoo’s security building is available every 30 minutes from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
ZooDunnit – October 13* | Adult-only (18+)
This Locked Zoo meets murder mystery affair sets the stage for an evening of intrigue and espionage. Guests will interact with a cast of shady characters while gathering curious clues. By the end of the night, dinner – and justice – will be served.
Wild After Hours: Red Pandas – October 21* | Adult-only (18+)
Look to the treetops for flashes of red at this inspired evening of delectable delights and conscious conversation featuring some of the zoo’s most beloved furry faces. Visitors will be treated to a four-course meal, along with an exclusive viewing of our red pandas amplified by discussions with the Animal Care, Health & Welfare team members who know them best.
ZooBOO – October 28 & 29 | Family-friendly
Get a head start on the festive fun with an early opportunity for youngsters under 12 to dress up and trick-or-treat around the zoo. On their adventures through the zoo grounds, they’ll have an opportunity to collect stamps for a stamp safari, partake in a colouring book activity with Rozzi Lee, jive along to performances by the Wilder Bunch, see some of our animals receive Halloween-themed enrichment, and stop by a series of treat stations (for those 12 & under) along the way!
Halloween Brunch – October 28 & 29* | Family-friendly
Ghouls and goblins of all ages are invited to enjoy an eerie-sistible Halloween-themed brunch before creeping into the park to explore ZooBOO. Costumes are welcome at this hauntingly delectable event complete with a specialty menu and desserts to die for.
Sunday Safari Brunch – Sundays until November 12* | Family-friendly
Brunch lovers rejoice! Join us each Sunday for an egg-cellent brunch experience held in the heart of Destination Africa. Guests will enjoy both gourmet and comfort breakfast foods, including a free-flowing chocolate fountain with fresh fruit, eggs Benedict with Canadian bacon, a Belgian waffle bar, cooked-to-order omelettes and much, much more!
*Separately ticketed event, not covered by daytime admission.
While the zoo encourages visitors of all ages to dress up for Halloween-themed events, they ask that visitors adhere to their costume guidelines found here.
For more information or to purchase event tickets, visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
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For more information contact:
Alison Archambault
Director, Brand & Engagement
(403) 232-7766 | (403) 919-9482 | MediaRelations@CalgaryZoo.com
