The Houston Zoo goes “Wild About April” (Wild About April), with a month-long program packed with signature events, family-friendly experiences, and meaningful opportunities to support wildlife conservation.
From recreational runs to unforgettable dining experiences, the zoo connects communities with the animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. For details about the event and tickets, visit www.houstonzoo.org.
Zoo Bloom
When Through May 3
This spring, the Houston Zoo will bloom before your eyes during its new celebration “Zoo Bloom.” From now through May 3, visitors will celebrate the beauty of the season and learn about the vital role pollinators — such as bees, birds, bats, and butterflies — play in our vibrant city. This multi-day event will include flora-focused experiences at the Wildlife Workshop, the Zoo’s first Plant Public Sale on April 4, daily ‘Meet the Keeper Chats’ focused on pollinators, and extended hours — until 9:00 p.m.— on April 4, 11, and 18.
Walk for the Wild 5K
When: April 12
Time: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Returning for the fifth year in a row, the Zoo’s annual Walk for the Wild 5K — presented by Bank of Texas and designed for the whole family — brings animal lovers of all ages together. Participants will walk the Zoo’s grounds while raising crucial funds to support the 52 organizations in 17 countries with which the Zoo partners to protect endangered species and their habitats. During this morning, visitors will have the Zoo to themselves, enjoy interactive stations and participate in family-friendly entertainment activities at the end of the 5K loop.
Feast with the Beasts
When: April 17
Time: 6:30 p. m. – 10:00 p. m.
One of Houston’s most anticipated culinary events returns with “Feast with the Beasts,” presented by TXU Energy. It is an unforgettable evening featuring tastings from the area’s top restaurants — curated by Top Chef winner Tristan Epps and friends — live music, and animal encounters. This year, there are even more ways to enjoy the evening thanks to “Signature VIP,” VIP, and general admission ticket options. This nighttime event, strictly for guests 21 and over, offers attendees the chance to indulge while supporting the Zoo’s mission to save wildlife.
Autism Awareness Day
When: April 19
Time: Early entry at 8:00 a.m.
As part of its long-standing commitment to being a “Zoo for All,” the Houston Zoo will host Autism Awareness Day, providing a welcoming and sensory-friendly environment for visitors on the autism spectrum and their families. The Zoo will open its doors early to accommodate a small group of visitors and will offer carefully designed activity stations, as well as keeper-led talks at various points throughout the grounds. To ensure accessibility and inclusion for visitors of all abilities, we invite you to visit the Zoo’s accessibility page for more information on the accommodations, services, and resources available to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
University of Houston Ring Custody
Time April 30
In collaboration with the University of Houston, the Zoo is proud to participate once again in UH’s longstanding “Ring Custody” tradition, featuring the pumas Shasta VII and her brother Louie. True to the cougar’s authentic spirit, the graduating students this spring will celebrate this important milestone as their graduation rings are symbolically guarded by Shasta, the day before their graduation ceremony. Students, alumni, and the Houston community are invited to visit the pumas’ habitat at the Zoo to witness this unique tradition. Current University of Houston students enjoy free general admission to the Zoo during daytime hours (with valid ID) year-round. Students must reserve their tickets online in advance before visiting the Zoo.
