JACKSONVILLE, Fla — The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens announced the list of events happening at the popular attraction for Spring and Summer of 2026.
“From immersive exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities to unique member experiences and seasonal celebrations, there is truly something for everyone at the Zoo this spring and summer,” said Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens Chief Philanthropy and Marketing Officer Nikki Smith.
The zoo released the following schedule:
Dinosauria (Now – August 2): Travel back in time and come face-to-face with more than 40 life-size dinosaurs in the largest Dinosauria experience in Zoo history. From a towering Brachiosaurus to a roaring T. rex, this immersive adventure brings prehistoric creatures to life with interactive fossil experiences for all ages.
Bunny Bash – April 4 (Members Only): Celebrate spring at this exclusive, family-friendly Easter event featuring sweet treats, crafts, and photos with the Easter Bunny. Guests can enjoy a full day at the Zoo, including Total Experience access.
Yoga with Penguins – April 11, 18, 25 (Members Only): Relax and recharge with a guided yoga session at Tuxedo Coast while penguins swim nearby. This unique experience is open to all skill levels and offers a peaceful connection to nature.
Nature’s Newbies – April 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29: Designed for children ages 1–3, this interactive class features play-based learning, songs, story time, and an up-close animal ambassador encounter.
Zoo Tots – April 16-18, April 23-25, April 30-May 2: An engaging preschool program for ages 3–5 featuring games, crafts, animal encounters, and themed lessons that make learning about wildlife fun and memorable.
Wine & Cheese—with Goats! – April 23 (Members Only, 21+): Enjoy an unforgettable evening of wine, music, and playful interactions with Nigerian dwarf goats in this adults-only member experience.
Spring Adult Zoo Camp – April 25: A hands-on, immersive day designed for adults, featuring behind-the-scenes experiences, expert talks, and interactive learning focused on local ecology and conservation.
City Nature Challenge – April 24–27: Join a global community science initiative by exploring Northeast Florida, documenting wildlife, and contributing to conservation through the iNaturalist app.
Art in the Garden – May 9–10: Celebrate creativity with a vibrant, two-day festival featuring local artists, handcrafted goods, and a lively vendor market set within the Zoo’s beautiful gardens. (Included with general admission).
Snapshot Society – May 16 & August 15 (Members Only): A unique photography experience offering early Zoo access, expert instruction, and behind-the-scenes opportunities for photographers of all skill levels.
Tastings with Tigers – June 4 & July 16 (Members Only, 21+): Spend an evening with one of the Zoo’s most iconic species while enjoying curated food and beverages, animal care insights, and enrichment demonstrations.
Tunes and Blooms – June 5, 12, 19, 26; July 3: The Zoo’s popular summer concert series returns with live music, beautiful garden settings, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Yoga with Giraffes – June 6, 13, 20, 27 (Members Only): Start your morning with a peaceful yoga session alongside the Zoo’s giraffes in the scenic Savanna Blooms habitat.
Summer Zoo Camp – June 8–July 31: Weekly Zoo Camp sessions for ages VPK, 5–6, 7–9, and 10–12 offer a fun, hands-on summer experience filled with Zoo exploration, ambassador animal encounters, games, crafts, and themed educational activities.
You can find more information on these events at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens website.
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