NOTE TO MEDIA: Images and b-roll are available through this link. Photo credits are contained in the file name (example: Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium). Video credit can be provided to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
POWELL, OH – The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is welcoming spring with the return of Eggs, Paws and Claws, presented by Kroger. Taking place April 3 and 4, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, guests can experience a festive lineup of family-friendly activities, character experiences, and egg-stra seasonal fun that “everybunny” will enjoy throughout the Zoo.
Eggs, Paws and Claws is free with Zoo admission or membership. Discount tickets are also available at local Kroger stores.
This year’s highlights include:
Photos with the Easter Bunny
Guests can enjoy a unique photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny at Lakeside Pavilion from 9:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the line closing at 4:30 p.m. Advanced reservations are recommended but not required, and a stand-by line will be available. Photo purchases are not required, and personal device photography is welcome.
Egg Ambassador Meet and Greets
Meet the Zoo’s egg-ceptional hosts—Eggbert, Shelley, Yolko, and Oh-No—by Lakeside Pavilion at various times throughout the day. In the event of inclement weather, meet and greets will be held indoors.
Character Ambassador Meet and Greets
Some of the Zoo’s favorite Character Ambassadors will also be out and about to celebrate the season. Guests can stop by Lakeside Pavilion to snap a photo and say hello. Locations may move indoors if weather conditions require.
Eggbert and Shelley’s Rolling Shell-ebration
Eggbert, Shelley, Yolko, and Oh-No will roll through the Zoo aboard the Character Express train, spreading springtime cheer with lively music and smiles. (Weather dependent.)
Eggs-splore and Find
All 10 Zoo Character Ambassadors have hidden decorated eggs in their likeness throughout the Zoo for guests to discover! Guests can take part in this springtime twist on a traditional egg hunt by picking up an activity map at the tent just inside the Zoo’s entrance. Once all eggs are found, participants can stop by the prize tent near the Jr. Zookeeper gift shop to receive a special prize while supplies last.
Keeper Talks, Presented by Fifth Third Bank
Beginning this weekend for the season, guests can also enjoy Keeper Talks throughout the day, offering opportunities to hear directly from the Zoo’s animal care experts about the species they care for each day. For a full schedule of Keeper Talks, please visit the Event page on the Zoo’s website.
For additional information about the Columbus Zoo’s events, conservation initiatives, educational programs, and more, follow the Zoo’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn, and visit us at ColumbusZoo.org.
