Dallas Zoo Events
With a wide range of events and activities catered to all ages, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Dallas Zoo provides unique and memorable experiences, from community-focused events to special animal encounters.
events for all ages
Dallas Zoo Lights Presented by Reliant
Dallas Zoo Lights Presented by Reliant brings holiday magic to your Dallas Zoo with dazzling lights, festive activities, special activations and photo ops, and unforgettable fun for all to enjoy.
July 17 (SOLD OUT) & August 5
Dollar Days presented by NexPoint Philanthropies
It’s the wildest deal of the summer! Admission to the Dallas Zoo is just $1 on Dollar Days Presented by NexPoint Philanthropies. This is our special way of showing gratitude to our fantastic community for their year-round support.
summer and fall series
Safari Nights
Catch the rhythm of Safari Nights at the Dallas Zoo this summer — and now, for the first time, this fall! Groove to live tunes under the stars with a fresh genre of music every Saturday evening!
Destination: Dinosaurs
They’re back from the past! Step into a prehistoric park and wander among the shadows of over 100 life-sized colossal giants. Roam among these ancient creatures and come face-to-face with your favorite dinosaurs from the past!
once a year
Toss the Tusk
We invite guests to visit the Zoo for this “Toss the Tusk” event to surrender illegal products and learn more about this effort. Guest who wish to participate may bring their items to the Zoo’s main entrance. Admission is not necessary to engage in the “Toss the Tusk” event.
Adult-Only events
Attendees must be 21+ to participate.
two times a year
dallas zoo after dark
Wild nights, just for grown-ups! Dallas Zoo After Dark is your 21+ escape, packed with amazing animal encounters, epic vibes, tasty bites, and unforgettable fun. It’s the coolest adult-only night at the Zoo that keeps getting wilder.
november 1, 2025
Zoo to Do
This one-of-a-kind fundraiser invites guests to experience the magic of the Dallas Zoo like never before. Stroll through the Wilds of Africa while enjoying gourmet bites from top Dallas chefs, craft cocktails, live entertainment, and unforgettable animal encounters—all in support of our mission of Engaging People & Saving Wildlife.
member-only events
Become a member and join the next event! Reservations are required for all member events.
monthly
Member mornings
All Dallas Zoo members are invited to join us the first full weekend of every month as we highlight different species throughout the year! Members can participate in Keeper Chats, special activities, and exclusive member-only hours at the Zoo.
twice a year
Member festivals
Dallas Zoo members at the Passport level and above can enjoy some of our largest member-only events of the year. Member Festivals include Keeper Chats, face painting, ambassador animal presentations, kid-friendly activities, and seasonal fun.
TWICE A YEAR
Member Happy Hours
Cheers to being a Dallas Zoo member! All members ages 21+ can enjoy a kids-free event at the Zoo, complete with cocktails and activities geared toward adults.
four times a year
behind-the-scenes events
Dallas Zoo members at the Sponsor level and above can get special access to our animal habitats and operations. These exclusive events include complimentary food and drinks and small-group experiences.
president's circle events
Become a President’s Circle member and join the next event! Reservations are required for all member events.
three times a year
president's circle parties
All President’s Circle members are invited to exclusive parties to enjoy special animal experiences, Keeper Chats, and family-friendly activities. Valet parking and complimentary food and drinks are included.
four times a year
insider events
Fellow level and above President’s Circle members are invited to participate in exclusive experiences that keep you in the know about happenings at the Zoo. These include first looks at new exhibits, behind-the-scenes access, and new arrival celebrations. Complimentary food, drinks, and activities round out these events.
once a year
curator's luncheon
Ambassador level and above President’s Circle members are invited to attend an exclusive lunch with our senior level curators and zoologists to learn more about the Zoo in an intimate setting. The luncheon provides an opportunity to ask questions, gain knowledge, and get to know our Zoo staff.