Alpacas: Our alpaca herd will not be viewable during the morning of Friday, June 5, during their annual fleece shearing. Thank you for your understanding.
Early Zoo Closure: Last entry to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo will be at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5th, to accommodate set up for our Zoo Brew (18+) event. Last entry to Destination Africa will be at 3:30 p.m. and the zone will be closed by 4:30 p.m. The remainder of zoo grounds will be cleared by 5:30 p.m. Thank you for your understanding.
Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary: The Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary is temporarily closed. Thank you for your understanding.
Avian Influenza Protocols: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza within 200 kilometres of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo.
The health and well-being of the animals in our care remains our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, we’re proactively implementing the following measures to protect our avian species:
Our dedicated Animal Care, Health & Welfare team will continue to monitor the situation and prioritize the health and well-being of the animals in our care. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to keep the animals we all care about safe.
PETRONAS Gateway to Asia Malayan Tapir Viewing: ‘Sempurna’ and her female calf ‘Nyawa’ have daily access to either the main indoor habitat or the outdoor habitat from 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. They’ll also have access to their behind-the-scenes space and may choose to spend time there, so viewing isn’t always guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding.
Exploration Asia
The Exploration Asia Redevelopment project is officially underway! While there are some viewing impacts in the area, you can still visit many of your favourite species.
Due to significant construction activities in and around Exploration Asia, the zoo’s West Gate will remain closed for the 2025 season and is expected to remain closed until at least 2028/2029. This necessary step supports the safe movement of visitors while we undertake exciting improvements to animal habitats and visitor experiences.
Special Events
From craft beverage nights and brunches to behind-the-scenes veterinary talks and after-hours dining, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is launching a packed lineup of summer events for adults, families, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Zoo Brew*
June 5 | 18+
The zoo will once again host an adults-only evening celebrating Alberta’s craft beverage scene, featuring more than 30 beverage vendors, food offerings, and after-hours access to the grounds. Guests can sample local brews and beverages while exploring the zoo in a relaxed, social atmosphere designed for an evening out with friends or a date night experience.
Polar Bear Breakfast*
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.
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. Each globe accommodates four to six guests.
Father’s Day Specialty Brunch*
June 21 | Family-friendly
Turn this Father’s Day into a full day of discovery and special family memories. Our talented culinary team is preparing a delicious spread for this guest-favourite brunch buffet that will satisfy the dad in your life whether he’s a foodie or his belly rumbles for comfort food.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations
June 21 | Family-friendly
Celebrate the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day at the zoo with a day of cultural programming and community gathering. Guests can take part in speaker sessions with Elders, drumming and dancing performances, a collaborative colouring mural, and an Indigenous makers’ market running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., among other activities. All National Indigenous Peoples Day programming is included with admission and memberships.
Vet’s Eye View*
June 26 | Ages 12 and up
Guests will get a behind-the-scenes look during an evening led by Head Veterinarian & Senior Manager of Animal Health and Welfare, Dr. Doug Whiteside, and the zoo’s Animal Health team. The event features presentations, photos, videos, X-rays, and real-life case stories from veterinary care at the zoo, along with opportunities to explore equipment and speak with animal health experts. Recommended for ages 12 and up.
*Separately ticketed event, not covered by daytime admission.
