Join us at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo for our annual plant sale: Thursday - Saturday, May 16, 17 & 18, while supplies last. All proceeds benefit the Zoo. A diverse selection of plant species are available, including vegetables, herbs and native perennials. All the plants are grown in Colorado, and most are grown right here at CMZoo. Not sure what you need? Our experienced horticulture staff can help you navigate the many types of available species. You're sure to find the perfect additions for your yard, patio or garden! Access the Plant Sale via the Zoo admissions area (look for signs). Sales are in-person only. No reservation or Zoo admission required. (Please note: NO shipping or delivery is available; sale is in-person only, no online sales.)
<a href="https://www.cmzoo.org/events/">Events for Sunday, August 18, 2024 - Sunday, August 18, 2024</a> › Zoo Events
Annual Zoo Plant Sale (May 16, 17 & 18)
Run to the Shrine (May 18 & 19)
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo invites all ages of world class runners and families alike to Run to the Shrine, offered on the evenings of Saturday, May 18 and Sunday May 19, 2024. Run to the Shrine is a 4-mile run/walk course that curves through the Zoo, up to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun and back down into the Zoo. Run to the Shrine has become an annual Cheyenne Mountain Zoo tradition, and it is the only time that guests are allowed to travel up to the Shrine of the Sun by foot! In addition, Run to the Shrine is an important fundraiser for the Zoo. Registration is required. (Saturday, May 18 is SOLD OUT, but tickets are still available for Sunday, May 19.)
World Tree Kangaroo Day
All ages. Join us for exciting activities planned in Australia Walkabout to help raise awareness for tree kangaroo conservation. This event and all activities are included in the price of your daytime admission to CMZoo. Please note: advance tickets to the Zoo are required for members and the general public, and some days may sell out.
World Turtle Day Celebration
All ages. Join us for exciting activities planned in Scutes Family Gallery and The Loft to help raise awareness for turtle conservation. This event and all activities are included in the price of your daytime admission to CMZoo. Please note: advance tickets to the Zoo are required for members and the general public, and some days may sell out.
Outdoor School: Teen Naturalist Training Series
Ages: Middle school & High School. A series of four workshops: June 2, 9, 23, 30. These workshops will hone in on developing the necessary skills to be a future steward of the environment. This series is only offered as a full 4 week course consisting of 12 hours of classroom and in-the-field learning. Our 4 workshops will cover the following topics: Mammalogy, Ornithology, Herpetology & Entomology. Through hands-on and experiential opportunities we’ll study such concepts as Ecology, Biology, and Conservation all while being in the unique setting of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Join us as we learn how to best protect our local wildlife and wild places. Registration is required.
Unique & Differing Needs Day Camps (Ages 7-11) – Harmonious Habitats
*Ages 7-11. Offered on Saturday, June 8, Friday, June 20, Friday, July 12 & Tuesday, July 23. *This camp is specially designed for campers ages 7 -11 with autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing disorders, developmental disabilities/delays or medical fragility. In this series, we will adventure into nature’s playground and discover the magic of jungles, deserts, aquatic, and underground realms. Together we will uncover how every habitat is different and unique, but necessary for the survival of all animals. You are welcome to sign up for just one evening or all four; each program will highlight different habitats through unique experiences. (One caregiver may also attend this camp without an additional fee.) Registration is required and opens online Feb. 1, 2024.
Zoo Ball 2024: Two Ways to Celebrate the 20th Anniversary!
Our fabulous online Auction is LIVE June 10-15, 2024. We hope you’ll join us for Zoo Ball 2024, featuring both an in-person black-tie gala and a fabulously unique online auction (black-tie optional!) offering unique art, once-in-a-lifetime animal experiences, and so much more! There’s something for everyone with this annual fundraising event. Whether you’re joining us at the Zoo in your evening gown or from your couch in your giraffe pajamas, we’re so grateful for your support! Every dollar directly supports Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and our efforts in conservation, education, and animal care. Get ready to be dazzled! Register to bid and tune into the online fun for free. Auction bidding closes Saturday, June 15 at 7:15 p.m. MT.
Member Appreciation Night
Zoo Members only - We appreciate you, so join us and your favorite animals for our first after-hours members-only event of the summer! Don’t forget your discount at our Thundergod Gift Shop. All restaurants will be open! Please note, we may have no scheduled animal demonstrations for this event, but watch for “pop-up” experiences. We look forward to seeing you at the Zoo! Check your membership email for more details. Reservations for the Member Appreciation Night event (5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) are not required (Advanced tickets are required for any daytime admission from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Public and Media Invited to Reopening of Historic CMZoo Carousel
All ages. Join us in celebrating the return of the carousel and the milestone in the Zoo’s progress towards major Zoo improvements! Brief comments from CMZoo President & CEO, Bob Chastain. Free carousel rides 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 13, 2024 (advance Zoo admission required).
Stroller Safaris: Jungle Journey in June (June 20, 29)
Ages 1-4 with adult. Offered: June 20, 29. The natural forest habitat we have on the mountain helps many of our animals feel right at home! Join us as we Journey into the Jungle to meet some animals who prefer the dense coverage of the trees to the open plains. Registration is required and open online now.
World Giraffe Day
All ages. Join us in celebrating giraffes on the longest day of the year! We will have lots of fun activities 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., and we hope to see you for our 10 a.m. Giraffe Parade, wearing your giraffe-best. Meet our herd and their keepers in African Rift Valley throughout the giraffe plaza, boardwalk, and barn. Make sure to check out our live-streaming Giraffe Cams, too! Advance tickets required.
Paint. Sip. Safari.
Ages 21+. Offered on June 26 with an African lion theme. Join us for an adults only program where you not only get to create memories but a painting of one of our amazing animals as well. Each month offers a different animal theme to paint. Spend the evening at the Zoo strolling through animal exhibits, enjoying an adult beverage, meeting animals up-close and creating a masterpiece! Registration is required. This event is sold out. If you would like to be added to a wait list, please email [email protected].
Moonlight on the Mountain
Kick off your summer with Cheyenne Mountain Zoo during the first adults-only event of the season! Don’t miss this adults-only event. Enjoy all-inclusive samples of beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks while tasting delicious eats from area restaurants. Local musicians will set the mood throughout the Zoo and have you dancing the night away until 10 p.m. This evening is for adults 21 and older ONLY. IDs must be presented on event night. Advance tickets are required and sell out quickly. NOTE: VIP tickets are SOLD OUT! (Looking for more magical evenings on the mountain this summer? Learn about our Tails, Tunes & Tastes.)
Member Enrichment Night
Zoo Members only - How do we keep our animals active and healthy? We give them enrichment – activities that use natural behaviors, allow control over their environment and enhance their well-being. Enrich your evening by watching our animals enjoy themselves! All restaurants will be open. Please note, we may not have scheduled animal demonstrations for this event, but watch for "pop-up" experiences during your visit. Check your membership email for more details. Reservations for the Member Enrichment Night event (5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) are not required (Advanced tickets are required for any daytime admission from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Stroller Safaris: The Jungle Journey continues in July (July 12, 18, 27, 31)
Ages 1-4 with adult. Offered: July 12, 18, 27, 31. The natural forest habitat we have on the mountain helps many of our animals feel right at home! Join us as we ‘Journey into the Jungle’ to meet some MORE animals who prefer the dense coverage of the trees to the open plains. Registration is required and open online now.
Dog Days at the Zoo (July 16 & 31) – SOLD OUT
July Dog Days are sold out. On Tuesday, July 16 & Wednesday, July 31, add an extra ticket to make your family outing complete! Bring your canine kiddo for a Zoo adventure. For these special dates, you can bring your well-behaved dog to the Zoo with you! Simply purchase a dog ticket along with your family’s human tickets, and Fido can experience many of the sights, sounds and smells that make the Zoo so special. Dog tickets are limited. Advance tickets are required.
Paint. Sip. Safari. (July 17, 31)
Ages 21+. Offered on July 17 or 31 (July 17 is sold out.)with a peacock theme. Join us for an adults only program where you not only get to create memories but a painting of one of our amazing animals as well. Each month offers a different animal theme to paint. Spend the evening at the Zoo strolling through animal exhibits, enjoying an adult beverage, meeting animals up-close and creating a masterpiece! Registration is required. If these are sold out and you would like to be added to a wait list, please email [email protected].
Youth Conservation Leadership Conference 2024 (6th-12th Grades)
Ages 12-18. CMZoo’s Youth Leadership Action Board invites you to the 6th Annual Youth Conservation Leadership Conference (YCLC), right here on the mountainside. This conference is hosted by your teenage peers as a common ground conference to work towards worldwide conservation education efforts. Registration is required open now. YCLC 2024 is sold out. If you would like to be on a wait list, please submit this form.
Red Ape Rally Day
All ages. Join us for Red Ape Rally Day! If you are visiting Cheyenne Mountain Zoo on Wednesday July 24th, stop by Primate World from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate orangutan conservation. Download the PalmoilScan app today and learn more at cmzoo.org/palmoil. Activities for the whole family will create Zoo memories while raising awareness for orangutan conservation and sustainable palm oil including: Build your own orangutan nest out of different materials, stop by our photo booth, petition-signing table and coloring stations, play a palm oil grocery game where you will learn about shopping for products containing sustainable palm oil, watch special orangutan enrichment and a keeper talk at 1:30 p.m. Advance tickets are required and available here.
Tails, Tunes & Tastes
Ages 21+. Join us for a magical evening on the mountain, exclusively reserved for those age 21 and up. Local musicians will set the mood throughout the Zoo! Tickets to Tails, Tunes & Tastes include unlimited small plates and two drink tickets. Cash bars also available. (No one under age 21 will be permitted, including no children or infants.) Tickets are required and available online now. Save $10 by purchasing your ticket early! Day-of ticket purchases (if not sold out) increase to $74.75.
End of Summer Member Celebration Night
Zoo Members only - Can you believe it? Summer goes by so fast! Enjoy one last after-hours wander through the Zoo at our Members-Only end of summer event! Beat the heat and share a special night at the Zoo. Don’t forget your discount at our Thundergod Gift Shop. All restaurants will be open! Please note, we may not have scheduled animal demonstrations for this event, but watch for "pop-up" experiences during your visit. Check your membership email for more details. Reservations for the End of Summer Celebration Night event (5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) are not required (Advanced tickets are required for any daytime admission from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Stroller Safaris: Arthropods in August (Aug. 9, 15, 24, 28)
Ages 1-4 with adult. OfferedL August 9, 15, 24, 28. From pollinators to decomposers, this month we are learning about the amazing world of arthropods! By popular demand, it is finally time to meet & learn all about our bug friends!. Registration is required.
Panya’s 7th Birthday Party
All ages. Join us to celebrate the seventh birthday of Panya, the eldest of the giraffe littles! Mark your calendars for Tues., Aug. 13, and get your advance e-tickets to join in the festivities. Panya's 7th Birthday Party will be at the giraffe boardwalk in African Rift Valley, where you can enjoy family-friendly activities from 10 a.m. to noon. This birthday party is presented alongside our partners, Children’s Hospital Colorado! Get tickets now
Paint. Sip. Safari. (Aug. 14 or 28)
Ages 21+. Offered on August 14 or 28 with a koi fish theme. Join us for an adults only program where you not only get to create memories but a painting of one of our amazing animals as well. Each month offers a different animal theme to paint. Spend the evening at the Zoo strolling through animal exhibits, enjoying an adult beverage, meeting animals up-close and creating a masterpiece! Registration is required.
Hands-On Homeschool AUGUST – Whacky World: Upside Down
Ages: Elementary (1st-6th) & Middle School (6th - 8th). Join us as we turn the animal kingdom on its head – literally! Set your sights on an unforgettable edventure into the topsy-turvy lives of creatures that defy gravity and logic. Registration is required.
Tails, Tunes & Tastes
Ages 21+. Join us for a magical evening on the mountain, exclusively reserved for those age 21 and up. Local musicians will set the mood throughout the Zoo! Tickets to Tails, Tunes & Tastes include unlimited small plates and two drink tickets. Cash bars also available. (No one under age 21 will be permitted, including no children or infants.) Advanced tickets are required and are on sale online now.
Emmett & Digger’s Housewarming Party
All ages. Join us for a weekend-long housewarming party for our grizzly bears, Emmett and Digger. The boys are back in Rocky Mountain Wild and we’re BEARY excited to celebrate with you Sat., Aug. 31 through Mon., Sept. 2 (Labor Day) with special activities and keeper talks. Advance admission tickets are required and on sale online now.
Teen Program Off-Season Winter Session 2024 – Applications Open (Sept. 1-10)
Ages: Middle and High School, 6th - 12th grades. Winter Off-Session runs Nov. 12 - Feb.12, 2025 for Zoo Crew, Junior Zoo Keeper and Teen Core programs. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Teen Programs provide meaningful life experiences that inspire teens to take conservation action both on and off Zoo grounds through education, leadership, stewardship and environmental exploration. Off-Season Teen Programs offer weekends, evenings, and after school teen opportunities. Admission to the program is through an application process. Online applications for Zoo Crew, Junior Zoo Keeper and Teen Core programs will be open during this time. An application fee applies.
Dog Days at the Zoo (Sept. 6 & 30)
On Friday, Sept. 6 and Monday, Sept. 30, add an extra ticket to make your family outing complete! Bring your canine kiddo for a Zoo adventure. For these special dates, you can bring your well-behaved dog to the Zoo with you! Simply purchase a dog ticket along with your family’s human tickets, and Fido can experience many of the sights, sounds and smells that make the Zoo so special. Dog tickets are limited. Advance tickets are required.
Military Appreciation Week
Join us for Military Appreciation Week at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Sept. 9-15! It’s a week of even bigger thanks to our military personnel for their continued service to our great country. This week’s military discount features 50% off the day's normal admission base price, which is offered to all active-duty, veteran and retired military personnel and their dependents living in the same household. To enjoy a full week of stars and stripes, purchase your advance timed tickets and march on up to the Zoo! Tickets are available online now.
Silent Night at the Zoo
All ages. Full Zoo experience (except sky ride and carousel). Dining options will be limited. We invite you to a unique Zoo event, Silent Night on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. Our busy lives are often filled with schedules, responsibilities and noise. Come prepared for a peacefully quiet evening away from the pressures of the city below. Advance e-tickets are required and are on sale online now.
Outdoor School Family Safari Series (Sept. 14, 28, Oct. 12)
All ages: SIgn up for any one class or all three. Offered Sept. 14, 28 & Oct. 12. Join us for unforgettable adventures tailored for the whole family! We’ll explore the wonders of our wild world through interactive activities, guided zoo tours, and hands-on experiences led by our knowledgeable zoo educators. From up-close animal encounters to engaging workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Grab the family and discover the magic of our wildlife and wild places! Registration is required.
Paint. Sip. Safari. (Sept. 18)
Ages 21+. Offered on September 18 with a Mexican wolf theme. Join us for an adults only program where you not only get to create memories but a painting of one of our amazing animals as well. Each month offers a different animal theme to paint. Spend the evening at the Zoo strolling through animal exhibits, enjoying an adult beverage, meeting animals up-close and creating a masterpiece! Registration is required.
Tails, Tunes & Tastes
Ages 21+. Join us for a magical evening on the mountain, exclusively reserved for those age 21 and up. Local musicians will set the mood throughout the Zoo! Tickets to Tails, Tunes & Tastes include unlimited small plates and two drink tickets. Cash bars also available. (No one under age 21 will be permitted, including no children or infants.) Advanced tickets are required and are on sale online now.
Paint. Sip. Safari. (Oct. 2 & 16)
Ages 21+. Offered on October 2 & 16 with a Western screech owl theme. Join us for an adults only program where you not only get to create memories but a painting of one of our amazing animals as well. Each month offers a different animal theme to paint. Spend the evening at the Zoo strolling through animal exhibits, enjoying an adult beverage, meeting animals up-close and creating a masterpiece! Registration is required.
Boo at the Zoo – (Oct. 18-20, 25-27, 31)
Seven nights! Evenings of Oct. 18-20, 25-27 & 31, 2024 from 4 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. All ages. Come see the original creatures of the night. It’ll be all treats and no tricks for your little pirates and princesses at this year’s Boo at the Zoo, the region’s most unique Halloween event. Boo at the Zoo is a fun way for families with young children to trick-or-treat and enjoy Halloween festivities in a safe environment, and all of our candy is made with sustainable palm oil to help protect wild orangutans! Advance timed admission tickets are required, and will be on sale closer to the event.
Paint. Sip. Safari. (Nov. 6 & 20)
Ages 21+. Offered on November 6 & 20 with a chameleon theme. Join us for an adults only program where you not only get to create memories but a painting of one of our amazing animals as well. Each month offers a different animal theme to paint. Spend the evening at the Zoo strolling through animal exhibits, enjoying an adult beverage, meeting animals up-close and creating a masterpiece! Registration is required.
Fall Break Day Camps (K-6th Grade) – Nov. 25, 26, 27
Ages: Kindergarten - 6th grade. Theme: Behind the Bubbles: Dive into the fascinating world of bubbles in nature! Together we will explore the beauty and science behind bubbles found in our animal kingdom and the nature that surrounds them. Join us for a single day or all three days of exploration that is sure to bubble with excitement. Registration is required. Online registration opens Monday, Sept. 2 at 9 a.m.
Electric Moonlight
Adults 21+. Celebrate holiday lights and cheer during this adults-only event, Electric Moonlight. This event combines our festive holiday lights with indoor sampling areas featuring beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks while tasting delicious eats from area restaurants (all while supplies last) – just like at our popular summer event, Moonlight on the Mountain! Advance tickets are required and are subject to selling out; no walk-up tickets available. (No one under age 21 will be permitted, including no children or infants.)
Paint. Sip. Safari. (Jan. 8 & 22)
Ages 21+. Offered on January 8 & 22 with a red panda theme. Join us for an adults only program where you not only get to create memories but a painting of one of our amazing animals as well. Each month offers a different animal theme to paint. Spend the evening at the Zoo strolling through animal exhibits, enjoying an adult beverage, meeting animals up-close and creating a masterpiece! Registration is required.