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Upcoming Events
Nov
30
Dec
31
Wild Lights presented by We Energies Foundation
Nov. 30, Dec. 1-31; except closed Dec. 2, 9, 16, 24, and 25
During this festive season, the Milwaukee County Zoo will transform into an illuminated destination with hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights — even bigger and brighter than last year! Enjoy an enchanted evening under the stars, with pathways and forested areas specially adorned with twinkling lights and decorative displays.
Dec
1
Dec
31
Sponsored by Hawks Landscape
The Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s favorite holiday tradition returns with Fantastic Forest. Local youth groups help craft animal-themed ornaments to decorate the nearly 70 trees that will be located inside the U.S. Bank Gathering Place throughout December. It’s the perfect starting point for Wild Lights, presented by We Energies Foundation!
Dec
26
Dec
30
Sponsored by Generac
It’s the season of giving, and the Zoo offers a week of free daytime admission to thank guests for their support. Visit the Zoo during “Frosty Free Week” to enjoy animals and nature. All guests receive free daytime admission December 26-30, 2024. (Regular parking, concession, and attraction rates apply. Regular admission rates apply to the Zoo’s Wild Lights night event.)
Dec
31
Wild Lights 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!
Jan
4
Sponsored by Tri City National Bank & FOX6
Make a splash in the New Year with FREE admission to the Zoo! (Parking and regular attraction fees still apply.) Check out Penguins of the Pacific, the newly-renovated habitat of the Humboldt penguins! A larger pool, new shade structures, bigger viewing windows, a penguin waterfall, and more are just a few of the features that make the habitat a standout.
Jan
19
Presented by Prairie Farms Dairy
Our favorite winter tradition is back! For this 45th running of the Milwaukee County Zoo’s Samson Stomp & Romp, participants are invited to join us for the race they know and love.
The race honors one of the Zoo’s most famous and beloved residents, Samson, the silverback gorilla (1950-1981). Money raised from the event supports all of the animals in the Zoo’s population.
Feb
1
Sponsored by Tri City National Bank & FOX6
Winter can be one of the best seasons to visit the Zoo, made even better with FREE admission! (Parking and regular attraction fees still apply.) Visit the red pandas, Dash and Dr. Erin, in their outdoor habitat. They’re skilled climbers and can often be spotted high up on their habitat platforms. You might also find them sleeping, with their fluffy tails wrapped around and serving as a blanket during the coldest temps.
Mar
1
Sponsored by Tri City National Bank & FOX6
March to the Zoo on this special day when all guests are admitted FREE! (Parking and regular attraction fees still apply.) Meet Japanese macaque baby Mai — now almost one year old but still petite. Her name is pronounced “May” and means “brightness” or “dance” in Japanese. Mai is quite active and lively to watch, along with the other members of her troop.