Special Events

What’s On This Month at the Zoo: Garden Globe Dining, Puzzle Nights, and more

May 06, 2026 | 3 minute read

A mix of new experiences and returning events is coming to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo this spring, ranging from interactive evening programming to seasonal brunches and behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters. Highlights include the introduction of Garden Globe dining and the return of guest favourites like Polar Bear Breakfast. 

Mother’s Day Garden Globes Brunch*
May 9 & 10 | Family-friendly 

The zoo is introducing Garden Globes for Mother’s Day, offering private, 90-minute brunch seatings in transparent outdoor domes. Guests will enjoy a curated brunch menu in a unique setting on the grounds, with zoo admission included. 

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 Mother’s Day Specialty Brunch*
May 9 & 10 | Family-friendly 

The zoo’s annual Mother’s Day brunch returns with a specialty buffet served in a safari-inspired setting in the heart of the zoo. Guests can pair their meal with time exploring the park, including habitats featuring animal mothers and their young. 

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Polar Bear Breakfast*
May 16, June 13, and additional dates through August 

This family-friendly morning event offers early access to the zoo’s Wild Canada zone, including before-hours viewing of polar bears ‘Yellé’ and ‘Siku’. Guests can hear from Conservation Education staff and volunteers about polar bear biology, conservation challenges, and current research, before enjoying a buffet breakfast. 

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Locked Zoo: Puzzling Prairies*
May 23 | 18+ 

Explore the dynamic prairie ecosystem in this interactive outdoor adventure, where predators, prey, and landscape are all part of the story. This guest-favourite experience challenges participants to solve puzzles, crack codes, and work together to uncover the secrets of prairie wildlife. New this year, each ticket includes a choice of a locally inspired meal to enjoy during the game.

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High Tea at the Zoo*
Until May 31 | Family-friendly 

High Tea offers a unique culinary experience that adds a touch of elegance to a day exploring the zoo. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared scones, finger sandwiches, and other handcrafted treats, paired with a curated assortment of loose-leaf teas. 

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Sunday Safari Brunch*
January-November | Family-Friendly 

Indulge in Calgary’s ultimate zoo-nique brunch. Guests can enjoy a free-flowing chocolate fountain, Belgian waffle bar, cooked-to-order omelettes, eggs Benedict, Canadian bacon, and more — then head out to explore the zoo with a full belly. 

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Spring Garden Globes Dinner*
June 12, 13, 14, 29, 20, 21 | Family-friendly 

A new evening experience will pair a guided, after-hours tour of the zoo with a private dining experience in the seasonal Garden Globes. Guests will explore the grounds with staff, gaining insight into wildlife and conservation work in a quieter, after-hours setting, before settling into a 90-minute dinner in a transparent outdoor dome. Designed for small groups, each globe accommodates four to six guests. 

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*Separately ticketed event, not covered by daytime admission.