Celebrate World Animal Day at the National Zoo and Aquarium with costumes, creativity and community fun! Photo: Michelle Kroll.
The National Zoo and Aquarium is excited to announce a special day of celebration for World Animal Day on Saturday 4 October 2025.
Guests of all ages are invited to join us in the Viewing Park for a fun-filled program that combines education, creativity and conservation.
In partnership with ACT Wildlife, the Zoo will be hosting a costume contest on Saturday for a gold coin entry donation, with all proceeds going directly to support ACT Wildlife’s important work.
There will be fantastic prizes on offer, including a family ticket for a Curious Creatures Tour for first place, a $20 voucher for the Bistro or gift shop for second place, and a $10 voucher for third place.
The day will also feature stalls from NZACT and ACT Wildlife, with the NZACT team leading hands-on DIY animal mask making.
Alongside these activities, visitors can enjoy the Zoo’s popular school holiday schedule of storytelling, roving puppets, lawn games and engaging keeper talks.
To set the scene, live music will be performed throughout the weekend, adding to the festive atmosphere.
World Animal Day is a chance to celebrate the animals we share our planet with while also highlighting the importance of community involvement in conservation.
We look forward to welcoming families and friends to take part in this global day of appreciation and action for wildlife.
The details
What: World Animal Day at the National Zoo and Aquarium
When: Saturday 4 October 2025
Where: National Zoo and Aquarium
Cost: National Zoo and Aquarium entry. Bookings available via National Zoo and Aquarium.
