Avian Influenza Protocols

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) within 200 kilometres of the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo.

The health and well-being of the animals in our care remains our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, we’re proactively implementing the following measures to protect our avian species:

  • Footbaths have been installed at the entrances to The Larry Ruskin Penguin Plunge, the Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary, and the African Rainforest Aviary for all staff, volunteers, guests, and contractors entering these spaces.
  • Birds will continue to have outdoor access where appropriate and weather permitting.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to keep the animals we love safe.

Animal Viewing Impacts

Black Bears: Our black bears will be intermittently off-view between Tuesday, October 6, and Friday, October 23, as shingles are replaced on the viewing areas. Thank you for your understanding.

West Gate Closure

Due to significant construction activities in and around Imagine Asia, the zoo’s West Gate will remain closed until at least 2028/2029. This necessary step supports the safe movement of visitors while we undertake exciting improvements to animal habitats and visitor experiences.

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Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS

Buy Tickets

Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS Combo Tickets

The Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS combo ticket is a special offer that allows guests to visit both the zoo as of 1:00 p.m. and ZOOLIGHTS, presented by Olympia Trust Company, in a single discounted ticket.

DATES:

  • November 13, 2026 - January 3, 2027

  • 1 - 9:30 p.m. Gates close at 9 p.m.



    IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

  • Please refer to the calendar below for pricing.

  • This combo ticket includes entry to the Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo starting at 1 p.m. and includes admission to ZOOLIGHTS starting at 5:30 p.m.

  • Guests are not permitted to leave and re-enter zoo grounds.

  • ZOOLIGHTS starts at 5:30 p.m. and activities ends at 9:30 p.m. Last entry is at 9 p.m.

  • Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please visit our ZOOLIGHTS FAQ page for more information on our cancellation policy.

  • Wild Journey members do not need to purchase Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS tickets to access the zoo or ZOOLIGHTS. Members can use their complimentary tickets or discounted tickets for ZOOLIGHTS.

  • Last entry for members is 3:00 p.m., after which members require a ZOOLIGHTS ticket for entry.

  • Members who purchase a ZOOLIGHTS ticket for entry after 3 p.m. and do not stay for ZOOLIGHTS may stop by Guest Relations for a full refund of their ZOOLIGHTS ticket.

  • Member discounts, including admission discounts, do not apply on Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS tickets

  • Events at the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo may take place in indoor or outdoor spaces, and accessing event locations may involve navigating varying terrain. While we strive to provide a physically accessible experience for all guests, some areas may be more difficult to navigate. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions about the event, please contact Guest Relations at (403) 232-9300. Wheelchairs and powerchairs are available to rent and should be reserved with Guest Relations at least 24 hours before your event.


ZOOLIGHTS is subject to blackout dates:

  • November 17 and 24, 2026

  • December 25, 2026: The Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo is closed.

Plan your visit in advance! Click here for everything you need to know to make the most of your ZOOLIGHTS experience, including activity details, FAQs and more!

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**If applicable Early Bird, Promotion or Member Pricing will be applied in the cart.
**Membership must be active at the time of the event to receive member pricing.

Dress for the weather! The zoo is open year-round with plenty of areas to explore both outdoors and indoors. Day admission, events, experiences happen rain, snow, or shine. Purchases/tickets are non-refundable. Explore Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo for more details.