Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has announced an exciting lineup of fall and winter events, featuring adult-oriented programs, Halloween festivities, conservation initiatives, and the return of its Wild Lights holiday display.
Special Animal Events:
- Marsupial Swap: Riverbanks is saying goodbye to Coedie, a beloved male koala, who will be relocated to Zoo Miami as part of efforts to promote genetic diversity among koalas in human care. His daughter, Kirra, will remain at the zoo, and a new resident, Milo, will arrive soon.
Engaging Programs:
- Bug Hotels & Seed Balls (November 7, 6-8 pm): Spend an evening at Riverbanks Botanical Garden, learning about pollinators while enjoying drinks and building a bug hotel for your home garden. Tickets are $45 per person, or $80 for both Bug Hotels & Seed Balls and an additional workshop. Use the code “BREW” at checkout for a discount.
Conservation Awareness:
- World Migratory Bird Day (October 12, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm): Celebrate and protect migratory birds with educational activities and displays from six conservation partners. Learn about pollinator plants and actions you can take to protect birds and insects.
Halloween Fun:
- Boo at the Zoo (October 18-30, 6-9 pm): This 12-night family-friendly Halloween event will feature new attractions like Pirate’s Cove, Sasquatch Swamp, and UFO-themed areas, alongside familiar favorites such as Ray’s Moonlight Magic Show and Eeky Freaky DJ Dance Party. Costumes are encouraged. Tickets are limited and vary by date, with advance purchase recommended for discounted rates.
Holiday Spectacular:
- Wild Lights (November 15 – January 14, select nights): Experience the beauty of nature illuminated by over 60 brand-new lantern displays, including polar bears, flamingos, and jellyfish. The event will also feature nightly snowfall, interactive exhibits, and visits with Santa. Tickets go on sale November 1, with member prices starting at $10.99 for adults and $7.99 for children.
Backstage Animal Encounters:
- Tickets are now available for fall backstage tours, offering behind-the-scenes experiences with animals, from feeding sea lions to meeting a century-old tortoise. Proceeds support the zoo’s conservation efforts.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit riverbanks.org.
