Here are 5 things you have to see at the zoo in Calgary this summer
Giant animals are taking over the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo this summer — and it’s a cause for celebration!
That’s right, 10 absolutely enormous plant sculptures are landing at the zoo this summer, and there’s a whole whack of ways to celebrate them.
Called “WildScapes,” the zoo’s gardens will be home to amazing handmade creatures crafted with living flowers, succulents, and other plant materials. Imagine a 24-foot-long snake and a 21-foot-tall giraffe! Yep, these gigantic living sculptures will be around the height of a two-storey building.
Since these plant-based (get it?) animals are only here for a limited amount of time, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has lined up a season of accompanying events to celebrate the warm weather and create one-of-a-kind memories.
Whether you’re looking for some fancy evening soirees or more family-friendly activities, here are five events you can’t miss at Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo this summer.
Mad Hatter Garden Party (18+)
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo (Sergei Belski)
The zoo’s Dorothy Harvie Gardens will magically transform into a whimsical garden soiree a la Alice in Wonderland. Get ready for an adult’s-only evening complete with fairytale-inspired food and bespoke cocktails. Don’t forget your Alice-inspired outfits (not required, but encouraged!).
When: Friday, June 16
Time: 6 pm to 10 pm
Where: Dorothy Harvie Gardens, Asia Lawn & BBQ Tent
Price: Early bird tickets, $99 + GST. Regular ticket price, $109 + GST.
Corks for Conservation
Visit the zoo for an evening of wine tasting, interactive food stations, live music, and activities at this Wild After Hours adult-only event. Whether you’re admiring the animals or the lush gardens, the zoo’s vibrant atmosphere makes for a perfect night out with friends or a romantic date.
Featuring a wide selection of both Canadian and international wine samples from over 20 vendors, you’ll have the opportunity to sip and stroll through the entire zoo after hours.
When: Friday, July 28
Where: All throughout the zoo grounds
Time: First timed entry is at 5:00 p.m., last timed entry is from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Last call is 10:30 p.m. Event ends at 11:00 p.m.
Price: $89 + GST.
High Tea at the Zoo
Snack on meticulously-crafted treats like dainty scones and delicious finger sandwiches while sipping on a variety of high-quality teas. As you get your tea on, you’ll be able to take in the sights of the ENMAX Conservatory and its many manicured gardens and flowers — outdoor dining is also available!
When: July 4, 16, & 30; and August 13, 20, & 29
Where: ENMAX Conservatory (pick your table at checkout)
Time: Choose arrival times from 2:30 pm, 3 pm or 3:30 pm
Price: Adults, $80 + GST. Children, $45 + GST. Seniors, 74+GST
Gorilla Breakfast
Forget gorillas in the mist, how about gorillas with a side of eggs? The zoo welcomes everyone to a delicious pancake breakfast with a scoop of gorilla knowledge.
Led by Animal Care, Health & Welfare Technicians, you’ll learn all about the western lowland gorillas over a cup of coffee (or orange juice). With a full belly, you’ll end the meal with a trip to the Rainforest Building to see where the gorillas live and play.
When: June 24, July 1, 8, 15, & 29; and August, 5, 12, & 19
Time: 7:30 am to 9:30 am
Where: Grazers Restaurant (across from the flamingoes)
Price: General (16+), $65 + GST. Children, $49 + GST
Garden Noir (18+)
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo (Sergei Belski)
One of the most anticipated events of the season, Garden Noir is an evening filled with mystery and excitement. The gardens will be draped in darkness with a whimsical glow over the grounds, the perfect backdrop for unique food creations and hearty drinks (whiskey included).
Come with your dark-coloured party attire and enjoy the fun of a live auction and performance and hours spent on the dance floor.
When: Friday, September 15
Where: ENMAX Conservatory
Time: 6 pm to midnight. The ENMAX Conservatory opens at 7 pm
Price: Early bird, $159 + GST. Regular tickets, $179 + GST.
So get ready for a wild summer by visiting the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s website to learn more about Wildscapes, and purchase tickets.
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