Upcoming Events

Presented by We Energies Foundation
Nov. 21-29, Dec. 3-31; except closed Nov. 24-27, 30, Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 24-25

Wild Lights and frosty nights! Experience the magic of the Zoo after dark, walking through hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights throughout the forest and pathways. Enjoy an enchanted evening under the stars in an illuminated destination glowing with a variety of animal-themed light displays.

Sponsored by Hawks Landscape

‘Tis the season for cherished traditions, and one of the Zoological Society’s favorite traditions is the magical Fantastic Forest! This prelude to Wild Lights features almost 70 trees throughout the U.S. Bank Gathering Place that are decorated with animal-themed ornaments by local youth groups. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday mood before walking onto Zoo grounds to see the lights!

Learn more at www.zoosociety.org/events.

Presented by We Energies Foundation

Start a NEW tradition for New Year’s Eve with the Zoo’s Wild Lights special event!

Whether it’s date night with your special someone or a group outing with the family, Wild Lights offers a unique and glittery experience for all! It’s the most wonderful time of the year to stroll along a 1-mile path glowing with animal-themed light displays and hundreds of thousands of shimmering lights. Wild Lights Zoo Year’s Eve is sure to become part of your festivities to ring in the New Year for years to come!

Sponsored by Tri City National Bank & FOX6

Enjoy a crisp winter day at the Zoo — outdoors or in! On this day, all guests receive free admission (parking and regular attraction fees still apply). See Eastern black rhinos Kianga and Zuri in the new Ladish Co. Foundation Rhino Care Center, and say hello to hippo Happy. Plus, help wildlife by recycling your holiday lights at the Zoo during your visit. Look for the collection bin in the U.S. Bank Gathering Place through January 11, 2026.

Presented by Prairie Farms Dairy

A winter tradition returns as the Milwaukee County Zoo commemorates the annual Samson Stomp.

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to join in this popular event, honoring one of the Zoo’s most famous and beloved residents, Samson, the silverback gorilla (1950-1981). Money raised from the event supports all the animals in the Zoo’s population.

Presented by Bridgewood Advisors 

Cocktails, fine dining, and the best boxing talent in Wisconsin. Puttin’ on the Ritz is one of the premier fundraising events of the year put on by the Zoological Society. Held at the Potawatomi Casino, this memorable evening will provide fun and entertainment as you help make a difference in the Society’s mission to conserve, educate, and support the Milwaukee County Zoo.

Learn more at www.zoosociety.org/Ritz.

A 21+ Valentine’s Event

Returning for its second year is Hearts & Tails — the Zoological Society’s Valentine’s-themed event. Guests will enjoy a buffet dinner while listening to an engaging zookeeper talk about dating and mating in the animal kingdom. (If you attended last year, you won’t want to miss out on this brand-new presentation!) Afterward, take a stroll with your Valentine, Gal-entine, or Pal-entine through Apes of Africa and Primates of the World to cap off this lovely evening at the Zoo.

Learn more and pre-register at www.zoosociety.org/events/hearts-and-tails.