Zookeeper Day
Schedule
Sat Jul 18 2026 at 09:00 am to 03:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
3000 NW 83rd St, Gainesville, FL, United States, Florida 32606 | Gainesville, FL
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Have you ever wondered what it's really like to be a zookeeper?National Zookeeper Week is celebrated every July to bring attention to the hard work, dedication, and loyalty of zookeepers around the world. Zookeepers are chefs, care takers, builders, scientists, researchers, conservationists, engineers, architects and more!
We will be celebrating and showcasing our incredible student zookeepers and the amazing work they do on July 18, 2026 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Participate in activities to see if you have what it takes to be a zookeeper, meet our animal ambassadors, enjoy keeper talks, training demonstrations and meet with representatives from other zoos and conservation organizations represented by graduates from the Zoo Animal Technology program.
Gainesville is home to the only teaching zoo on a college campus accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in the nation, training future zookeepers in the highest standards of animal care. This event is perfect for anyone interested in working with animals and will include an information session about the Zoo Animal Technology program.
Training Demonstrations:
TBD
Animal Encounter Shows:
TBD
Zoo Animal Technology Program Presentation - Kara Sylvester:
TBD
Visiting Organizations:
TBD
Food & Fun:
DonutNV
Kona Ice of Hawthorne
Cosmic Snowcones & Hot Diggity Dogs
Quiet Hours - 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. (no music or presentations on microphone)
Admission
Tickets are only available at the gate the day of event. All credit cards, cash, checks and Apple/Samsung Pay are accepted.
$10 - adults
$6 - children ages 4-12, Seniors (60+), Active Military and Veterans, Teachers, Police, Firefighters, First Responders, EMT/EMS, Healthcare Workers (all with valid ID), UF students and staff with current Gator1 ID
$3 - Electronics Benefits Transfer recipients
(up to 4 total tickets with card, any combination of adults/children)
Free - Children (3 and under), SF Students, Staff, and Retirees (with current SFID), and Zoo Members
This event is funded in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
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Where is it happening?
3000 NW 83rd St, Gainesville, FL, United States, Florida 32606Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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