Animal Celebration Days

Planning your next Zoo day? Our Celebration Days give you even more to look forward to.

Throughout the year, we highlight amazing animals from around the world with special days like International Hyena Day and World Giraffe Day. When you visit during one of these celebrations, you will find extra experiences built right into your day - from keeper talks and hands-on activities to up-close opportunities to learn more about the animals your family loves.

The best part? Everything is included with Zoo admission. No extra tickets, no extra planning. Just show up and enjoy a day filled with even more discovery.

Whether you plan your visit around a specific Celebration Day or stumble upon one while you are here, there is always something extra waiting to make your Columbus Zoo visit feel a little more special.

Purchase Zoo Tickets See our Main Event Calendar

child looking at river otter in habitat

2026 Schedule

SPRING SCHEDULE
DateEventLocation
APR 25World Penguin DayShores & Aquarium region
APR 27International Hyena DayHeart of Africa region
MAY 9World Migratory Bird DayNorth America Trek region
MAY 23World Turtle DayShores & Aquarium region
SUMMER SCHEDULE
DateEventLocation
JUN 8World Ocean DayShores, Polar Frontier, & Adventure Cove regions
JUN 21Pride! w/ LorikeetsAustralia & The Islands region
JUN 21World Giraffe DayHeart of Africa region
JUN 15Pollinator WeekAll regions
JUN 23Pink Flamingo DayShores & Aquarium region
JUN 27World Rainforest DayAdventure Cove region
AUG 10World Lion DayHeart of Africa region
AUG 12World Elephant DayAsia Quest region
AUG 19World Orangutan DayAustralia & The Islands Region
zoo mascots posing for photo

Columbus Zoo Events

Looking for even more ways to plan your day at the Zoo? From seasonal favorites like Eggs, Paws, and Claws and Boo at the Zoo, to the magic of Wildlights and the Lantern Festival, there is always something exciting on the calendar.

Visit our main events page to see what is happening during your visit and find the experiences that fit your family best. Whether you are planning ahead or just seeing what is happening this weekend, it is the easiest way to make the most of your time at the Zoo.

View Zoo Event Calendar