Veterans Day – Veterans & Family Enter FREE
2024-11-11 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Detroit)
What: Veterans Day
When: Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Potter Park Zoo
In honor of those who serve, Potter Park Zoo is welcoming all veterans, military members, and their families into the zoo free of charge Monday Nov. 11. We hope to see you at the zoo!

32nd Annual Wonderland of Lights
2024-11-23 17:00 - 2024-12-23 20:00
Get Ready to Be Dazzled: Potter Park Zoo’s 32nd Annual Wonderland of Lights!
✨ When: Thursday–Sunday, 5 – 8 p.m., Nov. 23 – Dec. 23 (Closed Thanksgiving)
✨ Where: Potter Park Zoo
Get Tickets Here
*To ensure a safe and secure experience when purchasing tickets for Potter Park Zoo events, please note that Wonderland of Lights tickets are available exclusively through our official website. Tickets will not be sold on third-party platforms or via alternative payment methods like PayPal or Venmo. We encourage all our guests to remain vigilant and watch out for potential scam accounts.
Experience the zoo in a whole new light! Thousands of shimmering lights transform the pathways into a winter wonderland, perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories with family and friends. Stroll along illuminated paths, enjoy festive music, and soak in the magic of the holiday season at Potter Park Zoo!
Meet Santa🎅 : Fridays and Saturdays, Santa will be on-site for photos. (Please note: Santa won’t be present on Thursdays and Sundays.)
Don’t miss this enchanting holiday tradition!

Thank you to our 2024 Trim a Tree Sponsors!
Nykamp Dental
Pediatric Dentistry of East Lansing
Dyras Dental
Holly Park Academy and Windemere Park Charter Academy
PrepNet Virtual Academy
Diverse and Inclusive Collaborative Education
Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors
MSU Health Care Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine
Odd Nodd Art Supply
Two Men & a Truck
Triterra – Creating Healthier Communities
CASA for Kids, Inc
Hometown Heating & Air Conditioning of St Johns
Lansing Sanitary Supply, Inc.
Holt Lutheran School
DeWitt Family Meijer
Augenstein & Associates
Winalee and Ron Zeeb
Richard and Renate Snider
The Dorin Family
The Decker Family
The Savage Family
Scott Cook Family
Charlie Silm Family
In Memory of Nic Weigold
In Loving Memory of Victoria Foster Perez
In Memory of Frank Eirosius, Sr.
Potter Park Zoo AAZK
Potter Park Zoo Volunteers

Toys for Tots at Wonderland of Lights
2024-12-01 17:00 - 20:00
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer and brighten a child’s holiday season!
Join us for our annual Toys for Tots Toy Drive on Dec. 1, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Potter Park Zoo. All you need to do is bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate, and as a thank-you, you’ll receive FREE admission to Wonderland of Lights that evening.
This is a fantastic way to enjoy our dazzling light displays while giving back to children in need. Don’t miss out on this chance to make the holidays magical for everyone!
S’mores for a Cause!
During our Toys for Tots Night, Potter Park Zoo’s AAZK Chapter will be selling delicious s’mores at the campground! Stop by to toast marshmallows, enjoy a sweet treat, and support a fantastic cause.
All proceeds will go toward purchasing large enrichment items for the animals at the zoo, enhancing their care and well-being. S’mores will be available all evening—or until supplies run out—so don’t miss out on this tasty way to make a difference!

Conservation Talk With Paul Buzzard
2024-12-03 12:00 - 13:00
Join Us for a Conservation Talk with Paul Buzzard!
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 3
Time: Noon – 1 p.m.
Location: Potter Park Zoo
Admission: Free
Leap into the world of snow leopard conservation with Paul Buzzard, whose dedication has taken him from the China Exploration and Research Society to roles such as Director of Conservation at the Detroit Zoo. Currently, Paul continues his impactful work as a regenerative farmer at Detroit Flight Path Farm and as a Conservation Technician with the Michigan Climate Smart Farms Project.
In this engaging talk, Paul will share insights on the importance of the Gaurishankar Conservation Area in Nepal for snow leopards, the growing overlap between snow leopards and common leopards, and the expansion of his project supported by Panthera NGO. He’ll also provide exciting updates on the Pallas’s cat project in Armenia, which now includes work with Persian leopards, mouflon sheep, and endangered newt species.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand from a conservation expert and gain a deeper understanding of critical wildlife projects around the world!

Zoo Nights, with Lights
2024-12-18 17:00 - 20:00
*Update*
Zoo Nights with Lights is SOLD OUT!
Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets. We truly appreciate your incredible support and can’t wait to see you for a magical evening filled with lights and fun!

Join us at Potter Park Zoo Dec. 18, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for Zoo Nights with Lights!
*To ensure a safe and secure experience when purchasing tickets for Potter Park Zoo events, please note that Zoo Nights with Lights tickets are available exclusively through our official website. Tickets will not be sold on third-party platforms or via alternative payment methods like PayPal or Venmo. We encourage all our guests to remain vigilant and watch out for potential scam accounts.
Get ready to bundle up and experience the magic of the season in a whole new way. This special evening, exclusively for our 21+ guests, offers a delightful happy hour-style gathering that combines holiday cheer with a touch of wildlife wonder.
Here’s what you can look forward to:

Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with holiday music and enchanting decor.
Savor a variety of delectable bites from local restaurants and sip on beverages from local beverage companies.
Explore the zoo after-hours, getting up close and personal with our amazing animals.
Indulge your taste buds with delicious treats, all while basking in the warm glow of our mesmerizing holiday light display.

Each guest will receive three drink tickets upon entry, with the option to purchase more for those looking to add a little extra holiday spirit to their evening.
Food Vendors
Pizza House
Texas Roadhouse
Saddleback BBQ
Drink Vendors
Ellison Brewing
Dan Henry
Sierra Rose
Red Cedar Spirits
Fenn Valley Winery

S’mores for a Cause!
Potter Park Zoo’s AAZK Chapter will be selling delicious s’mores at the campground! Stop by to toast marshmallows, enjoy a sweet treat, and support a fantastic cause.
All proceeds will go toward purchasing large enrichment items for the animals at the zoo, enhancing their care and well-being. S’mores will be available all evening—or until supplies run out—so don’t miss out on this tasty way to make a difference!
Don’t miss this chance to create unforgettable memories with friends, old and new, in the company of our beloved zoo residents and the enchanting holiday lights. Get your tickets today and make Zoo Nights with Lights a highlight of your holiday season!

Night at a Living Museum
2025-04-11 17:00 - 20:00
Unlock a world of wonder and discovery at our Living Museum! Join us Friday, April 11 from 5 – 8 p.m. for an evening of interactive experiences that will immerse you in the world of conservation and the natural world.
Experience the zoo like never before, as you explore select animal exhibits at twilight when the zoo is not normally open to the public. Get up close and personal with our animal care staff and discover the magic of the zoo in a whole new light.
Our hands-on activities are designed for guests of all ages to learn about the care of animals at the zoo and our conservation efforts both locally and globally.
This event is part of the MSU Science Festival Nights at the Museum series, a multi-day event highlighting science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through talks, demonstrations, tours, open houses, and hands-on activities for lifelong learners of all ages.
Admission is free and open to all ages, so bring the whole family and join us for an evening of learning and fun! No registration is needed. Visit www.sciencefestival.msu.edu for more information.

Party for the Planet
2025-04-19 12:00 - 16:00
Party for the Planet at Potter Park Zoo!
Join us on Saturday, April 19, 2025, for Party for the Planet, North America’s largest Earth Day celebration! More than 120 zoos and aquariums across the country are taking part, and you’re invited to explore conservation in a fun, hands-on way—all included with standard zoo admission!
🌱 What’s Happening?
♻️ Interactive Activities – Discover ways to make a difference for wildlife and the planet.
🌎 Educational Stations – Learn about sustainability, conservation, and how small actions can lead to a big impact.
What can you do to help the planet? Come celebrate Earth Day with us and find out!

Arbor Day Celebration
2025-04-25 12:00 - 15:00
Celebrate Arbor Day at Potter Park Zoo!
Calling all tree lovers and nature enthusiasts! Join us Friday, April 25, 2025, for a day dedicated to celebrating the trees that sustain us and the wildlife that call them home. This event is included with standard zoo admission!
🌲 What’s Happening?
🍃 Interactive Conservation Stations – Learn about tree-dwelling animals, identify different tree species, and discover how you can help protect our forests.
🌳 Take Home a Tree – Pick up a free tree sapling (while supplies last) and plant your own piece of conservation!
🌎 Make a Pledge – Commit to small actions that make a big impact on trees and our planet.
Mark your calendars and celebrate Arbor Day with us at Potter Park Zoo! 🌿✨

Mother’s Day at the Zoo- Mothers Get FREE Admission
2025-05-11 09:00 - 17:00
What: Mother’s Day Celebration
When: May 11, 2024, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Potter Park Zoo
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Potter Park Zoo. All moms will receive FREE admission Sunday, May 11.
We can’t wait to see you here at the zoo!

Zoo Nights
2025-05-22 17:00 - 20:00
For our 21+ guests:
Purchase Tickets Here!

Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza boasts delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforgettable moments. Zoo Nights is the ultimate mix of relaxation and exploration, tailor-made for an evening of fun with friends and family.
*Additional drink sample tickets and full-sized beverages are available for purchase.

Standard Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free drink sample tickets, food samples, free parking, and an after-hours experience!

Designated Driver Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free non-alcoholic beverage tickets, access to our Designated Driver Mocktail Lounge, food samples, free parking and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.
VIP Ticket: $40. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 5 free drink sample tickets, food samples, a VIP exclusive bar, a specialty VIP gift, exclusive entertainment, free parking, and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

Themes: Get into the spirit of Zoo Nights by dressing to match the event theme each night! Guests who arrive in themed attire will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a free Potter Park Zoo membership. It’s a fun way to enhance the experience, show off your creativity, and celebrate the night in style. Check out the event themes in advance, plan your outfit, and don’t miss your chance to win while enjoying a unique evening of sampling local beverages and food at the zoo after hours.
May 22nd: Neon Night.
June 12th: Western Night.
July 24th: Animal Print Night.
August 28th: Sports Night
Drink Vendors
We are excited to bring
Sierra Rose Hard Cider, Dan Henry Distributing, Burgdorf’s Winery, West Side Beer, Red Cedar Spirits, Fenn Valley Vineyards and Archival Brewing to Zoo Nights for guests to sample and explore their one of a kind beverages!

Food Vendors
We are excited to bring

Texas Roadhouse, Pizza House, Playa Bowls, Pita Way and The Hummingbird to Zoo Nights for guests to sample their delicious food!

World Turtle Day Celebration
2025-05-23 10:00 - 16:00
Join Us for World Turtle Day at Potter Park Zoo! 🐢
Celebrate World Turtle Day with us May 23 and dive into the amazing world of turtles! This event is included with standard zoo admission.
🌍 What’s Happening?
📚 Education Stations – Discover fascinating turtle facts, from their unique adaptations to their vital role in ecosystems.
🎨 Fun Activities – Enjoy interactive experiences, crafts, and games for all ages.
Turtles are essential to our planet’s ecosystems, and this special day is all about celebrating and protecting them. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars and visit Potter Park Zoo May 23 for a shell-tastic day of learning and fun!

Michigan Waterway Stewards River Cleanup
2025-06-07 10:00 - 15:00
Join Potter Park Zoo for a River Cleanup!
📅 When: Saturday, June 7, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
📍 Where: Lansing River Trail (in front of Potter Park Zoo)
Calling all nature lovers, conservationists, and community heroes! Help us protect local wildlife and keep our rivers clean by joining Potter Park Zoo’s River Cleanup Day. We’ll provide the supplies—you bring the enthusiasm!
Every piece of trash removed makes a difference for the animals and ecosystems that depend on our waterways. Together, we can make a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

Zoo Nights
2025-06-12 17:00 - 20:00
For our 21+ guests:
Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza boasts delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforgettable moments. Zoo Nights is the ultimate mix of relaxation and exploration, tailor-made for an evening of fun with friends and family.
*Additional drink sample tickets and full-sized beverages are available for purchase.

Purchase Tickets Now!
(Scroll down in the above link to Zoo Nights for tickets)

Standard Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free drink sample tickets, food samples, free parking, and an after-hours experience!

Designated Driver Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free non-alcoholic beverage tickets, access to our Designated Driver Mocktail Lounge, food samples, free parking and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

VIP Ticket: $40. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 5 free drink sample tickets, food samples, a VIP exclusive bar, a specialty VIP gift, exclusive entertainment, free parking, and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

Themes: Get into the spirit of Zoo Nights by dressing to match the event theme each night! Guests who arrive in themed attire will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a free Potter Park Zoo membership. It’s a fun way to enhance the experience, show off your creativity, and celebrate the night in style. Check out the event themes in advance, plan your outfit, and don’t miss your chance to win while enjoying a unique evening of sampling local beverages and food at the zoo after hours.

June 12th: Western Night.
July 24th: Animal Print Night.
August 28th: Sports Night

Drink Vendors
We are excited to bring
Flying Otter Winery, Brew Detroit, Dark Horse, Sierra Rose Hard Cider, Dan Henry Distributing, Burgdorf’s Winery and Red Cedar Spirits to Zoo Nights for guests to sample and explore their one of a kind beverages!

Food Vendors
We are excited to bring

Texas Roadhouse, Pizza House, Playa Bowls, and Pita Way for guests to sample their delicious food!

Fathers Day – All Dads Get Free Zoo Admission!
2025-06-15 09:00 - 17:00
What: Father’s Day
When: June 16, 2025, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Potter Park Zoo
Celebrate Father’s Day at the Zoo! All dads will receive FREE admission to Potter Park on June 16!
We hope to see you at the zoo!

Twilight Adventures
2025-06-28 18:00 - 21:00
Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6-9 p.m. as you embark on a scavenger hunt, following clues along the way, and learn from our conservation stations.
Engage in fun games and activities under the stars while enjoying delicious s’mores and concession snacks! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the zoo after hours and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Get ready for an exciting twilight adventure at Potter Park Zoo!
Adult: $18
Child (ages 3-17, under 3 free): $12
Member Adult: $12
Member Child: $6
Purchase Tickets Now!
(Scroll down in the above link to Twilight Adventures for tickets)

Fourth of July at the Zoo: Military Receive Free Admission!
2025-07-04 09:00 - 17:00
Happy Independence Day! The zoo will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for all to enjoy!

This year we’d like to say thank you by offering free admission to Potter Park Zoo to all United States Military.

Standard admission rates for the rest of your party:

Resident Adult – $8.00
Non-Resident Adult – $15.00
Resident Senior (60+)
Non-Resident Senior (60+) – $13.00
All Children (ages 3-12) – $5.00
All Children Under 3 – FREE

Zoo Days
2025-07-08 09:00 - 2025-07-09 17:00
What: Zoo Days
When: July 8 & 9, 2025, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Potter Park Zoo

Bring the whole family and the community to join us for Zoo Days, proudly supported by Meijer and WKAR!
Enjoy a wild day out at Potter Park Zoo for just $2 admission and free parking and enjoy everything that Zoo Days has to offer like:

Stroll through the zoo and meet animals from around the world
Grab a bite at the Zoo Days Café, proudly presented by Meijer
Explore hands-on fun with our Community Partners
Meet and greet with beloved family-friendly characters
And don’t forget to tune into WKAR Channel 23.5 – Where Families Learn Together!

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Zoo Days regular, there’s something for everyone. Come make memories, learn about animals and conservation together, and celebrate the 2025 summer with us at the zoo!

World Snake Day Celebration
2025-07-16 10:00 - 16:00
Celebrate World Snake Day at Potter Park Zoo! 🐍
Slither into Potter Park Zoo July 16, 2025, for World Snake Day—a celebration of these incredible, misunderstood reptiles! This event is included with standard zoo admission.
🐍 What’s in Store?
🔎 Education Stations – Learn fascinating facts about snakes, their role in ecosystems, and why they’re more helpful than scary!
🎨 Interactive Activities – Enjoy hands-on learning, fun crafts, and games for all ages.
Snakes are vital to the environment, helping control pest populations and maintaining balance in nature. Join us July 16 to celebrate these slithery superstars and discover why snakes are s-s-so important!

Zoo Nights
2025-07-24 17:00 - 20:00
For our 21+ guests:
Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza boasts delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforgettable moments. Zoo Nights is the ultimate mix of relaxation and exploration, tailor-made for an evening of fun with friends and family.
*Additional drink sample tickets and full-sized beverages are available for purchase.

Purchase Tickets Now!

Standard Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free drink sample tickets, food samples, free parking, and an after-hours experience!

Designated Driver Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free non-alcoholic beverage tickets, access to our Designated Driver Mocktail Lounge, food samples, free parking and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

VIP Ticket: $40. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 5 free drink sample tickets, food samples, a VIP exclusive bar, a specialty VIP gift, exclusive entertainment, free parking, and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

Themes: Get into the spirit of Zoo Nights by dressing to match the event theme each night! Guests who arrive in themed attire will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a free Potter Park Zoo membership. It’s a fun way to enhance the experience, show off your creativity, and celebrate the night in style. Check out the event themes in advance, plan your outfit, and don’t miss your chance to win while enjoying a unique evening of sampling local beverages and food at the zoo after hours.

July 24th: Animal Print Night.
August 28th: Sports Night

Twilight Adventures
2025-07-26 18:00 - 21:00
CANCELLED DUE TO PREDICTED INCLEMENT WEATHER. Join us for August Twilight Adventures!
Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6-9 p.m. as you embark on a scavenger hunt, following clues along the way, and learn from our conservation stations.
Engage in fun games and activities under the stars while enjoying delicious s’mores and concession snacks! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the zoo after hours and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Get ready for an exciting twilight adventure at Potter Park Zoo!
Adult: $18
Child (ages 3-17, under 3 free): $12
Member Adult: $12
Member Child: $6
Purchase Tickets Now! Cancelled due to inclement weather. Join us for August Twilight Adventures!

10th Annual Bowling for Rhinos
2025-08-08 18:45 - 21:00 | Pins & Pints East Lansing, 2120 E Saginaw Hwy, East Lansing, 48823, United States
Join Potter Park Zoo American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) for the 10th annual Bowling for Rhinos event! Join Zookeepers in an evening of bowling, silent auction, food, fun, & rhino conservation.
This year’s event will be held Friday, August 8 starting at 6:45 p.m. and will be at Pins & Pints East Lansing.
Price is $40/individual or $175/team of 5 and includes:

2 hours of bowling
shoe rental
pizza & pop
event shirt*

100% of proceeds go to rhinoceros conservation. Tickets can be purchased here or by scanning the QR code below with your phone or tablet.
*T-shirts can be purchased individually for those unable to attend the event.
Questions? Email PPZAAZK@gmail.com

Twilight Adventures
2025-08-09 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-09-05 18:00 - 21:00
Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6-9 p.m. as you embark on a scavenger hunt, following clues along the way, and learn from our conservation stations.
Engage in fun games and activities under the stars while enjoying delicious s’mores and concession snacks! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the zoo after hours and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Get ready for an exciting twilight adventure at Potter Park Zoo!
Adult: $18
Child (ages 3-17, under 3 free): $12
Member Adult: $12
Member Child: $6
Purchase Tickets Now!

Members Night
2025-08-13 17:00 - 20:00
Join us Aug. 13 from 5 – 8 p.m. for a one-of-a-kind evening filled with education stations, fun kid’s activities, and more! As a special treat, enjoy a light meal featuring hotdogs, chips, drinks, and a sweet treat. Don’t miss out on the fun – we can’t wait to see you there!
Not a member yet? Now’s the perfect time to become one! Learn more about membership here.

Zoo Nights
2025-08-28 17:00 - 20:00
For our 21+ guests:
Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza boasts delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforgettable moments. Zoo Nights is the ultimate mix of relaxation and exploration, tailor-made for an evening of fun with friends and family.
*Additional drink sample tickets and full-sized beverages are available for purchase.

Purchase Tickets Now!

Standard Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free drink sample tickets, food samples, free parking, and an after-hours experience!

Designated Driver Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free non-alcoholic beverage tickets, access to our Designated Driver Mocktail Lounge, food samples, free parking and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

VIP Ticket: $40. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 5 free drink sample tickets, food samples, a VIP exclusive bar, a specialty VIP gift, exclusive entertainment, free parking, and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

Themes: Get into the spirit of Zoo Nights by dressing to match the event theme each night! Guests who arrive in themed attire will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a free Potter Park Zoo membership. It’s a fun way to enhance the experience, show off your creativity, and celebrate the night in style. Check out the event themes in advance, plan your outfit, and don’t miss your chance to win while enjoying a unique evening of sampling local beverages and food at the zoo after hours.
August 28th: Sports Night

View Map Here!
August Zoo Nights Map

25 Years of Speed & Survival
2025-09-01 13:30 - 16:00
Spotted: An un-fur-gettable event you won’t want to miss! 🐆Join us for a captivating conservation talk! Discover the world of cheetahs and their incredible resilience with Mary Wykstra, a renowned expert on cheetahs and community development programs in Kenya since 2001.
📅 Monday, Sept. 1 | 1:30 p.m. | Discovery Center✨ Learn about cheetah adaptations & the hurdles they’ve conquered✨ Explore the remarkable efforts of the Action for Cheetahs team in Kenya
Best of all, it’s included with zoo admission!
Join us for a captivating conservation talk!

Wild About Our Community
2025-09-06 11:00 - 15:00
What: Wild About Our Community
When: Sept. 6 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Price: Included with general admission

Included with general admission, this special event celebrates the diversity of our community. Join us at the zoo for a unique experience featuring local food establishments and service organizations showcasing the best of what they have to offer. Wild About Our Community is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the unique flavors and services that make our community thrive! Don’t miss out on this fantastic occasion.

Thank you to our sponsors: Mid-Michigan Autism Association & Meijer

Community Partners
CASA for Kids Inc. of Barry, Eaton, and Ingham Counties
Islamic Center of East Lansing
Lansing Liederkranz Club
Lansing Symphony Orchestra
Mid-Michigan Autism Association
Miracle League of Mid-Michigan
Peckham
Polish National Alliance
Salus Center
SmallTalk Advocacy
Todd Martin Youth Leadership

Food Vendors*
Capital City Sweets
Gravity Smokehouse Brew & Que
P.F. Changs (Lansing)
Potter Park Zoo
Whispy Sugar

*Please note that food samples are first come, first serve and cannot be guaranteed for the entirety of the event.

Grandparents' Day - FREE admission for grandparents
2025-09-07
In celebration of grandparents and everything they do, all grandparents will get into the zoo FREE on September 8, 2024. We can’t wait to see you at the zoo!

What: Grandparent’s Day at the Zoo – All Grandparents Get FREE Admission at the Gate
When: Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Potter Park Zoo.

P.F. Chang's Fundraiser for Potter Park Zoo
2025-09-09 11:00 - 22:00 | P.F. Chang’s – Lansing, 2425 Lake Lansing Rd., Lansing, MI, 48912, United States
Join us at P.F. Chang’s on Tuesday, September 9, and help support Potter Park Zoo!

Enjoy your favorite P.F. Chang’s dishes, and 10% of the sales from orders mentioning the fundraiser, bringing in a flyer, or showing the staff a photo of the flyer (below) will be donated to support the zoo’s community programming.

Come hungry, leave happy—all while supporting our zoo!

*P.F. Chang’s Lansing location only*2425 Lake Lansing Rd.Lansing, MI, 48912

Share a photo of this flyer when you dine on September 9, 2025!

Red Panda Day Celebration
2025-09-21 10:00 - 16:00
Celebrate International Red Panda Day at Potter Park Zoo!
📅 When: Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
📍 Where: Potter Park Zoo
🎟 Included with standard admission
Join us for a day of fun, learning, and red panda cuteness as we celebrate International Red Panda Day! Discover fascinating facts about these charismatic, tree-dwelling mammals, enjoy engaging educational activities, and learn how you can help protect red pandas in the wild.
Don’t miss this special day dedicated to one of the world’s most beloved endangered species! See you there!
