Mayor Greenberg Announces Wild Holidays at the Louisville Zoo

Press Release

Celebrate the season with furry friends and discover unique gift ideas

Mayor Greenberg and the Louisville Zoo are excited to announce a monthlong celebration in December filled with activities for the whole family. From animal-themed holiday enrichment to visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, there's something to amaze the whole family. Plus, discover unique gifts that offer a whole year of fun for the recipient.

“The Zoo is a vibrant part of our city’s winter season and offers a wonderful way for families to connect and make holiday memories,” said Mayor Craig Greenberg. “Having events like these is a great example of how we can have fun while giving back to our neighbor

s and building a stronger and healthier Louisville together.”

Event highlights for December

• Beary Happy Holiday (Weekends: Dec. 6 – 7, 13 – 14, 20 – 21)

  
  

  Join animal friends throughout the Zoo as they enjoy special holiday-themed enrichment activities.

• Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit (Dec. 20 – 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

  
  

  The beloved couple of the season will make a last-minute stop at the Louisville Zoo to meet and take photos with guests. Families can also enjoy sweet treats (additional fee) during this special weekend.

• Holiday Scavenger Hunt (All Month)

  
  

  Guests can embark on a Zoo-wide scavenger hunt for all ages. Scan the QR code at the Zoo entrance to join the adventure and complete challenges for a chance to win Zoo-themed prizes.

Additional Details

The Zoo is open year-round with cozy indoor spaces. Holiday programming is included with general Zoo admission or membership. Visitors can also take advantage of discounted admission during Wild Winter Days, presented by Kroger, running through February 28, 2026. Guests who bring at least one non-perishable food item per person for Dare to Care Food Bank can purchase tickets at the Zoo for $11 per adult and $8 per child/senior.

For a complete schedule of events and activities, visit louisvillezoo.org/events

Gift Giving Ideas

Memberships: The gift that truly keeps on giving for the recipient — for a full year, in fact — is the Louisville Zoo membership. Purchase between Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 and enjoy $10 off any membership or gift voucher purchased online. The first 1,000 redemptions will receive a free plush animal. After Dec. 1, receive $5 off through Dec. 26 on holiday Zoo memberships. For a full list of memberships visit louisvillezoo.org/members.

Gift shop: Located at the front of the Zoo, the gift shop is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and no admission is required to shop. The Zoo’s gift shop boasts the largest and most unique variety of plush animals for any animal fan, a curated selection of handmade goods, eco-friendly treasures and wild Zoo apparel. Plus, Louisville Zoo members receive 10 percent off select merchandise. 

Adopts: The Zoo has a perfect gift that supports wildlife. Through the Zoo’s ADOPTS (animals depend on people to survive) guests can symbolically adopt a Zoo animal. See the full list of adoptable animals and benefit levels at louisvillezoo.org/adopts.

Honorary gift ideas: Honor someone meaningful this holiday season with a personalized Louisville Stoneware plaque installed in Irvin and Alice’s Garden near the sloth habitat. Installation timelines vary based on production and weather. A card will be provided to notify the gift recipient. Visit louisvillezoo.org/support for information or to order.

Gifts for Zoo animals: Help animals at your Zoo thrive! Donate enrichment items that encourage natural behaviors, stimulate curiosity, and support overall well-being. Browse the online wish list and give a gift directly to the animals this season at louisvillezoo.org/wishlist.

Zoo Hours

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through March 20, 2026, hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guests exiting by 5 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information.