The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) within 200 kilometres of the Wilder Institute’s 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:
Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to keep the animals we love safe.
Grizzly Bears: Our grizzly bear cubs are currently off-habitat to support their first winter sleep.
Adjusted Hours: With Alberta remaining on daylight time year-round, we will be adjusting our operating hours through winter to account for later sunrise and sunset. Starting on Friday, November 13, through Friday, February 12, we will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with last entry at 4:30 p.m.
Due to significant construction activities in and around Imagine Asia, the zoo’s West Gate will 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.
Announcements
13 NOVEMBER 2026 (Calgary, AB) – The Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo celebrates today the return of their dazzling holiday spectacular.
For 30 years, ZOOLIGHTS, presented by Olympia Trust Company, has helped make the holiday season shine a little brighter in Calgary. What began three decades ago as a festive way to light up the zoo has grown into a beloved holiday tradition, welcoming generations of guests from near and far.
Year after year, families have returned to gather under the glow of twinkling lights, explore sparkling scenes of iconic animals, and create lasting memories together.
“Children who once visited ZOOLIGHTS with their parents now bring children of their own, making the event part of the holiday traditions shared across generations,” said Dr. Kyle Burks, President & CEO of the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo. “Just as conservation is a commitment that spans generations, we’re honoured to help families create new memories year after year while inviting them to experience the zoo in a new light. ZOOLIGHTS gives us an opportunity to bring people together to discover, explore, and connect with the wildlife and conservation work that make the zoo so special.”
For three decades, ZOOLIGHTS has been a place to gather with loved ones, embrace the wonder of the season, and make memories that last long after the lights go out. While the experience is evolving, the heart of ZOOLIGHTS remains the same: bringing people together during one of the most special times of year.
Event details:
