Events 2012

The Buffalo Zoo offers a wide variety of events throughout the year. Choose from free events, which are included with your paid admission or fee-based events. Most of our events offer an educational component, a program-appropriate craft and animal demonstrations.  No matter what type of event you choose, your family is sure to have a fun, educational experience!

May 19
High Five for the Military!
The Buffalo Zoo is offering a "High Five For the Military" discount on the following dates in 2012:

Armed Forces Day (May 19)
Memorial Day (May 28)
Flag Day (June 14)
Independence Day (July 4)
Veterans Day (November 11)

Members of the United States military and up to four additional guests will be admitted to the Zoo for a total of $5.00. A valid military ID must be presented at the admission gates to receive discount. The Buffalo Zoo thanks you for your service!

June 1
Bowling for Rhinos
In conjunction with the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK), Buffalo Zoo keepers will hold our local Bowling For Rhinos fundraiser at Thruway Lanes near the Walden Galleria Mall on Friday, June 1, 2012. Check-in will begin at 6:00 p.m. Fees are $25 per adult bowler and $20 per child bowler (age 14 and younger). Fees include three games, shoe rental, pizza, soda, t-shirt and admission to the basket auction and raffles. The price for non-bowling guests is $10 per person and includes pizza, soda and admission to the basket auction and raffles. Pre-registration is required. Registration information (including payment) is due by Thursday, May 17.
This can be your family or company’s opportunity to be a strong voice in the worldwide effort to conserve endangered species. Please consider forming a team to bowl with the Buffalo Zoo keepers! You may also sign up as an individual bowler. For more information, please call (716) 995-6156 (9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. weekdays) or visit
CLICK HERE to download a registration form. 
CLICK HERE to download a pledge form.

June 2
Zooper Saturday (Elephantastic), presented by WGRZ-TV, 97 Rock and Classic Hits 104.1
Join us as we celebrate our incredible Asian elephants, Jothi and Surapa, as well as elephants around the world! Event highlights include Elephant Painting With Surapa, keeper talks, raffles and enrichment activities. The Niagara Frontier Reading Council will also distribute free books (while supplies last) as part of their "Wild About Reading Program." For more information, please call (716)995-6133. The Buffalo Zoo thanks Wegmans for sponsoring the elephant exhibit.

June 16
Party for the Planet, presented by the WNY Earth Day Committee
Join local environmental groups, businesses and college organizations at our Party For the Planet fair from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and explore how you can make healthier choices for you and our environment. For more information, please call (716) 995-6133.

2012 Buffalo Zoo Photo Contest
Take your best shot at the Buffalo Zoo this year and enter in our Photo Contest. You may win a place in the Women’s Board annual calendar. Best of Show wins the calendar cover! Up to 14 other prizes will be awarded in the general category. Our youth category awards include 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. For more information please call  716) 995-6131 or CLICK HERE to download rules and an application.

CLICK HERE to view the 2011 1st place winners.