Visit a Zoo Day

Celebrated on 12/27/2026

Quick Fact

Visit a Zoo Day, celebrated on December 27, encourages people to explore the wonders of wildlife. The first modern zoo, the Imperial Menagerie in Vienna, opened in 1752 and still operates today.

Origins and Establishment of Visit a Zoo Day

Visit a Zoo Day was established in the early 2000s by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to promote conservation and education. The specific date, December 27, was chosen to provide family-friendly entertainment during the holiday season when many people are off work and school. The day aims to highlight the role of zoos in wildlife preservation and public education.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, Visit a Zoo Day has grown from a small promotional event into a nationwide celebration. Zoos across the United States offer special activities, discounted admission, and behind-the-scenes tours. The day now emphasizes conservation messaging, with many zoos highlighting their breeding programs for endangered species and efforts to protect natural habitats. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #VisitAZooDay have helped spread awareness globally.

Facts & General Observations

• Approximately 181 million people visit AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums annually in the United States.
• Zoos spend over $160 million each year on wildlife conservation projects in over 70 countries.
• The world's oldest zoo still in operation is the Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Vienna, founded in 1752.

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