Arts and Entertainment

Virginia Zoo 125th Anniversary Event

August 29 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, Price: Event is free with general admission or Zoo membership.

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August 29 @ 9:30 am – 4:00 pm EDT

Celebrate 125 years of the Virginia Zoo at this anniversary event!

Event is free with general admission or Zoo membership.

Activities

MORE INFO COMING SOON

Animal Enrichment Schedule – Subject to change
- 9:30am: Animal Ambassador Greeters
- 9:45am: Orangutan Enrichment (outdoor habitat)
- 9:45am: World of Reptiles Enrichment
- 10am: Animal Ambassador Encounter
- 10:30am: African Lion Enrichment
- 10:30am: White-faced Saki Keeper Chat
- 11:15am: Animal Ambassador Encounter
- 11:30am: Orangutan Enrichment (indoor day room)
- 11:30am: Masai Giraffe Keeper Chat
- 12pm: Animal Ambassador Encounter
- 12:30pm: Rhinoceros Hornbill Enrichment
- 12:30pm: Malayan Tapir Keeper Chat
- 12:45pm: Animal Ambassador Encounter
- 1:30pm: Cow Enrichment
- 1:30pm: Masai Giraffe Keeper Chat
- 2:30pm: Aldabra Tortoise Enrichment
- 2:30pm: Southern Cassowary Keeper Chat
- 2:45pm: Animal Ambassador Encounter
- 3:30pm: Animal Ambassador Encounter
- 3:30pm: African Lion Enrichment
- 3:30pm: Asiatic Black Bear Enrichment
Educator Chats
- 10am: Historical Educator Chat
  - Look into the past 125 years of Virginia Zoo history!
- 1:30pm: Future Educator Chat
  - Learn about the future of conservation at the Virginia Zoo!
12 – 4pm: FREE beer samples from Elation Brewing
Bounce houses
DJ: Astro Event Company
10am – 2pm: Photos with Tango the Tiger, Virginia Zoo mascot
9:30am – 2:30pm: Conservation Organizations
- Action for Cheetahs
- Elizabeth River Trail
- International Rhino Foundation
9:30am – 2:30pm: Community Partners
- Chrysler Museum
- Cinema Cafe
- Dogtopia – Ghent
- MOCA
- Nauticus
- Norfolk Animal Care Center
- Norfolk Botanical Garden
- Norfolk Public Library
- SevenVenues
- Tidewater Compost
- The Up Center
- Virginia Aquarium
- Virginia Opera
- Visit Norfolk

Available for an additional cost ($):

Animal Art & Enrichment Silent Auction in the Event Pavilion
Tumbeezy Cookies
Fairy Hair
Face Painting by Artfully Yours Face Painting
Virginia Zoo Gift Shop will be open from 9am to 4pm.
- 25% discount available to Members only.
- 12.5% discount available for Non-Members.

Food & Drink ($)

MORE INFO COMING SOON

Food Trucks ($)
- Glazed & Infuzed
  - From 8:30-9:30am, Members can receive 10% off their purchase as an exclusive Member Morning discount.
- Munchies & Such
- DC Smoothies
- Deutscher Imbiss
African Village Restaurant will be open from 10am to 4pm.
- Spiked Icees – $10
- Regular Icees – $3.50
Beastro will be open from 10:30am to 3:30pm.
Mini Melts will be open from 10:30am to 4pm.

Event Reminders

Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.
As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. Event updates will be shared via the Virginia Zoo website, email, and, social media channels whenever possible prior to the event.
The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.
By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Arts and Entertainment

Teddy Bear Clinic at Virginia Zoo

August 15 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, Price: Event is free with general admission and will take place rain or shine.

Visit Website

August 15 @ 9:30 am – 12:30 pm EDT

It’s back-to-school season so let’s get a head start on preventing those sniffles and sneezes ! Help your little ones learn why it’s so important to visit the doctor’s office and how to maintain healthy habits by taking their favorite stuffed animal to the Zoo for a much-needed check-up .

Healthcare doesn’t have to be a scare – our educators, volunteers, and community partners are ready to ease kids’ anxiety by guiding their exploration of medical exams through play .

Event is free with general admission and will take place rain or shine.

Food & Drink (Extra Cost)

10am – 4pm: African Village Restaurant open
10:30am – 3:30pm: Beastro open
10:30am – 4pm: Mini Melts kiosk open

Event Reminders

Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.
As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.
The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.
By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Arts and Entertainment

Breakfast with the Animals

July 12 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, Price: Event is free with general admission and will take place rain or shine.

Visit Website

July 12 @ 8:00 am – 10:00 am EDT

Are you a morning person who’s ready and roaring to go to the Zoo on the weekend? Join us for Breakfast with the Animals – an opportunity to rise, shine and dine with your favorite Zoo residents!

Flock to the Zoo with your fellow early birds and catch exclusive access to the trails before we open to the general public. Gobble down some grab-and-go breakfast foods, migrate to your favorite animals’ habitat, and get a bird’s eye view of how morning meals are made on the wild side.

Gates open at 8am and close at 9:30am. The Zoo will open to the public at 10am.

Event takes place rain or shine!

Each ticket includes various breakfast foods, exclusive access to animal’s morning routines, and all-day Zoo admission.

COMING SOON

Event Reminders

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales may be limited to credit card transactions only.
Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.
As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.
The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.
By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Arts and Entertainment

Adult Night at Virginia Zoo

July 18 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, Price: Please note, prices may increase as the event date nears, so don’t wait — early birds get the best deal!

Visit Website

July 18 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm EDT

Want to visit the Zoo AND beat the summer heat ? Join us for an adults only (21+) evening at the Zoo! Unleash your inner wild child with the chance to explore exhibit trails after hours , dance the evening away to a DJ’s tunes , partake in free bounce houses, play lawn games with a refreshing summer cocktail in hand , and enjoy mouth-watering eats from amazing local food trucks .

*Please note that in order to not disrupt our animals’ routines, exhibit trails will close at 7:30pm, though the event continues until 8pm. The Goat Yard in the ZooFarm will remain open until 7:45pm.

Event is Ages 21+ and ALL IDs will be checked before entering.

Ticket Prices

Please note, prices may increase as the event date nears, so don’t wait — early birds get the best deal!

This is a 21+ only event. IDs will be checked upon entry.

COMING SOON

Event Reminders

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales may be limited to credit card transactions only.
Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.
As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.
The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.
By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Arts and Entertainment

Maria Bamford at Attucks Theatre

December 6 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Attucks Theatre 1010 Church St, Norfolk, VA 23510, Price: On sale soon!

Visit Website

Maria Bamford is revered for her deeply personal and experimental comedy about mental illness. She’s the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult and is the star of four hour-long standup specials (Local Act, Weakness is the Brand, Old Baby and Maria Bamford: the special, special, special!) and the surreal, semi-autobiographical Netflix comedy series Lady Dynamite, about a comedian who suffers a nervous breakdown.

Maria was the first female comic to have two half-hour Comedy Central Presents specials and starred alongside Patton Oswalt, Zach Galifianakis and Brian Posehn in The Comedians of Comedy. She also created and starred in the cult hit web series The Maria Bamford Show, in which she plays all the characters.

Maria is often recognized for her prolific voiceover work, including characters on Big Mouth and its spinoff Human Resources, HouseBroken, Teenage Euthanasia, Santa, Inc., Bob’s Burgers, Bojack Horseman, Summer Camp Island, Adventure Time, Talking Tom and Friends, Legend of Korra, Puss in Boots, CatDog and PBS’s Emmy-winning series Word Girl. She played DeBrie Bardeaux on Netflix’s Arrested Development and recurred on the ABC hit series Fresh off the Boat. Other TV guest roles include Night Court, Life & Beth, Portlandia, Kenan, Mr. Mayor, and large recurring roles on Hulu’s Everything’s Gonna Be Okay, and Showtime’s Flatbush Misdeameanors. Maria was also Emmy-nominated for her guest appearance on the Netflix children’s series Ask the StoryBots.

Maria’s late-night appearances include The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Late Night with Seth Meyers, CONAN, The Late Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show. Her interview series What’s Your Ailment? deals with the various mental struggles of celebrities and is available on the Topic streaming service. Her Audible Original You Are (A Comedy) Special is a semi-mock instructional book for both standup and life.

Arts and Entertainment

Visit with Santa

December 5 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The MacArthur Memorial Visitors Center 198 Bank Street Norfolk, VA 23510, Price: Free

Visit Website

Santa returns for another year of Christmas cheer!

Santa returns for another year of Christmas cheer! Come take your own photo with Santa with participating in free family friendly holiday activities!

Arts and Entertainment

Howl-o-ween: Dog Day at the Zoo

October 30 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, (757) 441-2374 Price: Price may vary

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Enjoy pawsitively spooky fun this Barktober with your favorite pup-kins at Howl-o-ween: Dog Day at the Zoo! Dog lovers and their well-behaved canine companions are invited to have a ball while exploring the Zoo together. Pups will enjoy new sights, smells, and sounds while playing an important role in enriching the lives of the Zoo’s animals. Guests are encouraged to dress their beasts in their most enchanting costumes and compete in our dog costume contest for a chance to win some pawsome prizes!

To ensure that this event is safe for everyone, your fur babies MUST be well-trained and vaccinated. Dogs behaving in an unruly or aggressive manner (i.e. excessive barking, growling, lunging, biting, etc.) will be required to leave without a refund.

How to Join Us:

Reserve a ticket for yourself AND your dog. Each adult ticket may only reserve a spot for ONE dog. Note: Our ticket form will not complete transactions that do not have a 1:1 ratio of adult humans to dogs.
Submit a signed waiver (this link will be provided in your ticket confirmation email).
Upload your dog’s veterinary records*. Medical records must be received no later than 2 weeks after ticket purchase OR 4pm on October 23 (deadline extended from October 16).
- Medical requirements:
  - Up-to-date vaccination for: Rabies
  - Up-to-date vaccination for: Distemper virus, Adenovirus (also called canine Hepatitis) and Parvo virus
  - Up-to-date vaccination for: Bordetella
  - Proof of negative heartworm test within the past year AND proof of purchase for heartworm preventative

Entry will not be permitted if your medical records have not been received by the Virginia Zoo, or if our veterinary staff determines that your dog’s records are insufficient.

Arts and Entertainment

Wild Tykes at The Virginia Zoo

September 24 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, (757) 441-2374 Price: Price may vary

Visit Website

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

Arts and Entertainment

Fall Fest at The Virginia Zoo

September 26 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, Price: Price may vary

Visit Website

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

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales may be limited to credit card transactions only.
Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.
As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.
The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.
By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Arts and Entertainment

ZooGrooves

September 11 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Virginia Zoo 3500 Granby St Norfolk, VA 23504, Price: Price may vary

Visit Website

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

Limited number of tickets available. Advance ticket sales end when sold out (get yours early!). If tickets remain on the day of the event, gate sales may be limited to credit card transactions only.
Tickets are non-refundable. All sales are final. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend the event, the purchase will be considered a donation.
As an outdoor venue, events are rain or shine unless otherwise indicated. If any changes are made, an announcement via an email to our members and/or ticket holders and on the Virginia Zoo social media channels will be issued prior the event.
The Zoo is a smoke-free facility; no smoking is allowed inside the Zoo. This also includes e-cigarettes and vaping. Inability to follow this rule will result in dismissal from Zoo grounds without a refund.
By purchasing an event ticket, you agree to abide by the Virginia Zoo’s Rules & Policies.

Virginia Zoo 125th Anniversary Event

August 29 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Activities

Food & Drink ($)

Event Reminders

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December 6 2026

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December 5 2026

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October 30 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

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Wild Tykes at The Virginia Zoo

September 24 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

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September 26 2026

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ZooGrooves

September 11 2026

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.