Events

Gators on the Green – Monday, May 20
Join us for the second annual Gators on the Green event, to be held May 20, 2013 at Wakonda Country Club. Put on by the Zoo's Ambassador group, this is sure to be a fun event! Whether you're great at golf or just want a unique way to support the Zoo's mission, consider joining us for Gators on the Green.

Adventure Days – Second Saturday of the month May – August
This summer series revolves around the Zoo’s mission statement to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through education, conservation and recreation. Adventure Days will spark a child’s creativity through crafts and games, engage them in scavenger hunts and other activities, and educate on the importance of conservation. There’s sure to be something for everyone in the family!

Zoo Brew – Wednesdays in June, July & August
For those 21 and over, Blank Park Zoo comes to life after hours every Wednesday in the summer. Each week this popular event features different themes, bands, and drinks while guests visit all the animals of the Zoo. The middle of the week is now something to look forward to!
 

Rhino Rampage – Saturday, June 15

Campout at the Zoo – Friday, June 21
Take a snooze at the Zoo with your friends and family for an overnight experience unlike any you’ve ever had before. Pitch a tent and see the animals of the Zoo after-hours while enjoying other camping themed activities. Hear the howls of the night and the coos of the morning on this Campout at the Zoo adventure.
 

2013 ZACC Conference – July 8-12
Blank Park Zoo is excited to host the 2013 Zoos and Aquariums: Committing to Conservation conference in Des Moines, Iowa in July!

Grandparent's Day – July 12
There is something special about the relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren – help Blank Park Zoo celebrate that bond by joining us for Grandparent's Day at the Zoo. This fundraiser is designed to provide an extra-special Zoo experience for grandmas, grandpas, and grandchildren!

Zoobilation – Friday, September 20
Zoobilation is back for its second year as Blank Park Zoo’s annual fall gala. Whether you enjoy the Zoo for the animals, education, conservation or all of its aspects, this event will allow you to support your favorite features all while enjoying food, cocktails and fun entertainment.

Zooktoberfest – Wednesday, October 2
Zoo Brew is back with an Oktoberfest twist! Be part of the first ever Zooktoberfest this fall at Blank Park Zoo - a mash-up of the popular Zoo Brew and the ever famous Oktoberfest. This event features the best seasonal beers, Oktoberfest-style food, live entertainment, and of course, all the animals of the Zoo. Do not miss out on this 21 and older fall event!

Night Eyes – October 17-20 & October 24-27
Night Eyes at Blank Park Zoo is returning for its 23rd year of the sweetest Halloween fun in Central Iowa. Costumed guests are invited to go on a treat safari in a world of lights, castles, and storybook characters. Ride the train, race tractors and skip down Scarecrow Lane to get to the Fun Zone during this merry, not scary, trick-or-treating event for the whole family to enjoy!

Santa at the Zoo – Saturday, December 7 & 14
He’s making his list and checking it twice and stopping by Blank Park Zoo with his reindeer again this year! Take your picture with Santa, visit his reindeer, and make arts and crafts. Also explore the Zoo’s Discovery Center and watch some of the big cats open a few early Christmas presents! Complete with cookies and cocoa this is a holiday event for all to enjoy.