Elmwood Park Zoo

Programs: The elmwood park zoo was established in 1924 and has attained the elite status as one of only 225 institutions accredited by the association of zoos and aquariums (aza). The zoo currently maintains a collection of about 300 animals indigenous to the americas. The elmwood park zoo is part of a greater mission, however, to help educate guests and the community about animals through various programs and zoo events on the importance of conservation, animal preservation and the environment. The zoo welcomes over 350,000 visitors annually for an educational adventure in a fun, clean, and family-oriented environment. To increase community involvement the zoo conducts special events and promotions geared toward the general public, families, special needs groups, schools and zoo members. These events are centered on the zoo's primary purposes, educating the public about wildlife, preservation of endangered species & conservation. The zoo hosts many public events in education, such as breakfast with the animals, breakfast with santa, groundhog day, chinese new year with crafts and activities centered on winter habits of animals and animals featured in the chinese zodiac. Participants can enjoy educational programs such as zoo on wheels, in which our educators travel with our animals to schools, camps, community events, senior centers and malls to promote our mission. The zoo has an annual party for the planet to promote conservation awareness and to spread our mission and incorporate green ways of living. Special public events include days throughout the year dedicated to a specific animal and an annual carnival to promote our season opening with live animal shows and the promotion of our animal enrichment program. We encourage volunteerism on martin luther king day with special animal programs. The zoo has a sheep shearing event in our petting barn with a live demonstration by a wool weaver to show what happens with the wool after it is sheared. Zoo snooze is very popular in which guests sleep under the stars amongst the animals. Zoovie, guests enjoy an animal themed movie under the stars. A donor appreciation night is a way to thank our donors for their support. The zoo hosts members' preview & members' picnic evenings to celebrate our members support and participation in our programs. Children of all ages enjoy our educational spring and summer zoo camp. We offer many other programs and free admission throughout the year to various groups and communities. The zoo offers internships in all areas of the zoo. The zoo partners with local businesses to reach out and educate the community about wildlife and conservation.