Events
The Utica Zoo hosts numerous events throughout the year from large premiere events that happen annually to smaller special events that occur more regularly. If you are interested in hosting your own even here on zoo grounds, feel free to visit our Pavilion Rentals page!
Limited spots available—reserve yours today for a roaring good time!
Adult ticket holders must be 21 years or older for alcohol, ID required. Additional drink options available
Child ticket holders must be accompanied by an adult.
Event is rain or shine, no refunds.
Join us for a wild experience of creativity and relaxation at the Utica Zoo! Our Paint & Sip event is the perfect way to unwind, socialize, and create a masterpiece surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Your Ticket Includes:
General Zoo Admission – come early and explore the zoo before the event begins 1 Complimentary Beverage to sip and savor Complimentary snacks– delicious bites to enjoy while you paint Professional Instruction from a local artist—perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike Your Own Take-Home Painting as a keepsake of your zoo adventure
Upcoming Event Details:
Date: November 1st, 2-3pm
Recommended age: 5-12 years old (parent/guardian required to supervise and pay admission, but not required to pay Paint & Sip fee)
Cost: $30
Painting details: Thanksgiving themed pumpkin painting and decorating
Grab your friends, sip, snack, and let your creativity run wild at this one-of-a-kind evening event!
November 1st & 2nd
Saturday:
10:00 AM- Gibbon
10:30 AM- Lion
11:00 AM- Asian Sheep
11:30 AM- Otter
12:30 PM- Camel
1:30 PM- Wallaby
2:30 PM- Chicken
3:00 PM- Zebu/Highland Cow
3:30 PM- Red Panda
Sunday:
10:00 AM- Spider Monkey
10:30 AM- Hyena
11:00 AM- Lynx
11:30 AM- Zebra
12:30 PM- African Crested Porcupine
1:30 PM- Crane & Muntjac
2:30 PM- Donkey
3:00 PM- African Painted Dog
3:30 PM- Goat
Experience the Zoo After Dark!
Step into the shadows and discover the zoo like never before! The Utica Zoo’s Night Prowl is an exclusive after-hours experience designed for small groups and families who want to explore the zoo once the gates close and the nocturnal world awakens.
Guided by a knowledgeable Zoo Educator, you’ll journey through the darkened pathways to encounter animals that become most active at night. Learn fascinating facts about nocturnal behaviors, unique adaptations, and the behind-the-scenes care that goes into supporting our nighttime residents.
Program Highlights:
- 🦉Small-group guided tour after hours
- Engaging stories and insights from a Zoo Educator
- 🐾A unique chance to experience the zoo under the stars
- Up-close learning with feathers, skulls, and other real biofacts
- 👨👩👧👦 A unique family experience that’s fun and educational
Details:
📅 November 5th, 2025| 5:30–7:00 PM
⏰ Approx. 1.5 hours
💲 Advance registration required
🌕 View the zoo under the Beaver Moon
Adults (13+)- $21
Children (2-12)- $18
Babies (Under 2)- Free
Members: $10 per person (ages 2+) Just register with the Name and Email associated with your account to pay member rate.
Whether you’re looking for a memorable date night, a family adventure, or a unique outing with friends, Night Prowl is your chance to see the zoo in a whole new light.
🎟️ Spots are limited—reserve your Night Prowl adventure now!
Meet Your Mate: A Wild Speed Dating Night at the Utica Zoo
Looking for love? Or maybe just a roaring good time? Swing by the Utica Zoo for Meet Your Mate, a one-of-a-kind speed dating adventure where sparks (and maybe fur) will fly!
Here’s the scoop: 30 singles will rotate through a series of quick and lively mini-dates. You’ll have just a few minutes to chat, laugh, and see if there’s chemistry before moving on to your next potential match. At the end, mark down your favorites—if the feeling’s mutual, we’ll help you connect after the event.
Event Highlights:
🐾 30 singles, balanced between men and women (as best as possible)
🐾 Fast-paced “mini-dates” to keep the night fun and lively
🐾 Complimentary refreshments and snacks to keep your energy up
🐾 A chance to find your purr-fect match in a truly wild setting
Details:
📅 Date: Saturday, November 8th
🕖 Time: 1-4pm for ages 40+
🕖 Time: 5-8pm for ages 21-40
📍 Location: Utica Zoo
💵 Tickets: $35 (includes admission, refreshments, and speed dating rounds)
Whether you meet the love of your life or just make some new friends, you’ll leave with a smile—and maybe even butterflies. Don’t miss your chance to let your heart run wild at the zoo!
Be sure to choose the correct time slot for your age group!
