Wild Tykes is a drop-in program recommended for kids aged 3-5 and their favorite adults! Each program features a new theme with age-appropriate nature and science activities that focus on these core areas: sensory, movement, free play, art, and problem-solving. We won’t be afraid to get a little dirty as we explore and play together! See signs posted in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza to find out the location of activities on the day of your visit. Free with General Admission.
Theme: Backyard Habitats
September 26 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm EDT
It’s time to fall in love with autumn at the Virginia Zoo’s newest event, Fall Fest on Saturday, September 20 from 5 – 8:30pm! 
This cozy, small-town inspired evening offers something for everyone, from nostalgic games to elevated tastings, all while soaking in the crisp evening air and golden-hour views.
Families will love the old-fashioned sack races, classic carnival games 
, and the charm of a curated fall market featuring handmade goods and seasonal finds. Local food trucks will serve up fall flavors 
, while live music sets the tone for a festive evening.
For guests 21+, enjoy bourbon and craft beer tastings from local favorites Tarnished Truth Distillery and Elation Brewing, included with your ticket.
Whether you’re with family or friends, this event is a celebration of unforgettable fall fun! 
Please note, prices may increase as the event date nears, so don’t wait — early birds get the best deal!
Event Reminders
September 11 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm EDT
Events are held rain or shine! Guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets to relax in the Event Field while listening to top hits.
Event Reminders
Calling all “Wild Babies” to the zoo! Join us for a NEW program offering for our youngest zoo visitors. We will be exploring age appropriate sensory and educational activities in a small up-close setting. This program is geared for 0-2 year olds and their guardians although older children will be welcome. Wild Babies will involve elements of nature and social development including but not limited to story time, short “hikes,” and an animal encounter.
These programs will be located in one of our classrooms. Please check signs in Fountain Plaza on the day of the event.
Theme: Fall Frenzy
October 18 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm EDT
Carve out some time this October to attend the pick of the patch Halloween event you won’t want to miss – ZooBoo! 
Hosted on October 18th and 19th from 9am – 4pm, this family-friendly celebration is packed with eerie-sistible fun for all ages. Guests can watch animals enjoy pumpkin enrichment, trick-or-treat at candy stations throughout the Zoo 
, meet Animal Ambassadors 
, compete in costume contests to win fang-tastic prizes 
and more. You and your boo crew will be in for a spooktacular treat!
Food & Drinks ($)
Dietary Needs? Check out the candy ingredient lists here for all of the candy that will be available for trick-or-treating so you can plan!
Due to this event being a special event fundraiser for the Zoo, we do not offer our normal ADA admission. We apologize for any inconvenience!
Thank you for your understanding and we can’t wait to see all of your spooktacular costumes!
Event Reminders
September 13 @ 8:00 am – 9:30 am EDT
Can YOU go the distance for monarch butterfly conservation 
? Every spring, monarch butterflies east of the Rocky Mountains migrate from Mexico to their summer breeding grounds 
in the United States and Canada. In the fall, they journey nearly 3,000 miles back down south to weather the winter. 
This migration is becoming increasingly difficult due to habitat loss in their breeding and overwintering grounds, increased pesticide use, climate change, and other factors.
Join the Virginia Zoo and the Tidewater Striders in supporting monarch butterflies by running, walking, or fluttering through the Zoo on Sunday, September 28 before opening! All ticket sale proceeds will go directly towards monarch butterfly conservation. Your ticket also includes the chance to enjoy the Zoo trails all day after your run!
Event Reminders
By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.
The Silver Social Club is a dynamic and enriching program designed to engage older adults in a supportive environment.
After tea and coffee, participants will enjoy a brief docent-led gallery talk before engaging with art-making activities. The program aims to enhance cognitive function, promote emotional well-being, and cultivate social connections through collaborative art-based experiences. Share your creativity, celebrate your life experience, and connect with others in meaningful lifelong learning.
$8 for members, $15 for non-members.
Tickets increase $10 at the door. Registration required.
Improve your curb appeal and become the envy of your neighborhood with a fused glass house number. As you create it, you’ll learn the basics of cutting glass and design a rectangular panel. Once the panels are completed, they will be fused in a kiln to create one finished piece.
Your 20% member discount will apply at checkout once you create your online account and sign in. Not a member? Join today to receive exclusive membership benefits right away!
Having trouble scheduling a class? Call us at 757-333-6299.
To complete the release and liability waiver before your class, fill out the form here.
Steep Canyon Rangers bring their celebrated blend of traditional bluegrass and contemporary acoustic Americana to the Virginia Arts Festival’s Perry Pavilion, in an evening co-presented with North Shore Point, on May 14 at 7:30 PM.
Hailing from the Appalachian and Piedmont regions of North Carolina, the Rangers, with over 15 albums, have forged a career honoring mountain music while reaching out to encompass literary roots, regional influences, and even jam grass, as well as their collaborations with that banjo-playing youngster, Steve Martin, who appears on their latest single.
Renowned for their virtuoso playing, soaring harmonies, and emotionally resonant storytelling, the band has attracted fans beyond the bluegrass world, establishing itself as one of the most influential groups in Americana today. With the addition of award-winning singer-songwriter Aaron Burdett, their sound carries an even deeper sense of soul and immediacy — music that can be tender, fiery, and unforgettable.
Join us at the Perry Pavilion for the three-time Grammy nominees and Grammy Award winners for Best Bluegrass Album whose artistry continues to shape American roots music.
Bring gently used clothing, mugs, tote bags, and plant propagations to swap with something brand new (to you)!
Please bring no more than one bag or box-full of clean, gently used clothing.
All unclaimed items will be stored until the next swap event.
Shop secondhand, dress sustainably and build community!
Click HERE to RSVP (not required, but it helps us plan ahead).
