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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Gladys Porter Zoo
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260510T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260510T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20200320T105445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T155056Z
UID:2172-1778400000-1778432400@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Animal Play Day “Mother’s Day… M.O.M.”
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a Mother’s Day themed Animal Play Day at the Orangutan Palapa. Participate in fun educational activities and coloring from 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Orangutan Palapa.  Our mother and daughter orangutan pair will be also receiving enrichment from their keepers at the following times: \n11:00 a.m.\, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. \nOrangutans are facing a crisis in the wild due to the loss of their rain forest home to make space for palm oil plantations. The cutting down and burning of the rain forest for these plantations leaves many orangutans homeless and/or orphaned. This event is free with the purchase of general admission or Zoo membership. We will be accepting donations for the Missing Orangutan Mothers campaign.
URL:/event/animal-play-day-mothers-day-m-o-m/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T220000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20240430T225217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T150508Z
UID:2792-1778958000-1778968800@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Brew at the Zoo
DESCRIPTION:Brew at the Zoo: Raise your glass for animal conservation!\nPresented by Whataburger \nThe Gladys Porter Zoo invites you to Brew at the Zoo on Saturday\, May 16th from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. with music until 11:00 p.m. \nSupport your local Zoo and quench your thirst by sipping on specially selected premium and craft beer samples and delicious food tastings from amazing chefs and restaurants. Only a few of the top Rio Grande Valley restaurants will be competing in this “feast with the beasts.” \nThe Zoo is working with L&F Distributors to curate a special selection of light beers that are perfect for the spring and summer season. Guests will be able to sample from 24 fun and unique craft beers\, which will be paired up with delicious food tastings from amazing restaurants. Los Trevi Drive Thru will also be in attendance and will be serving up delicious drinks from their Michelada Combi. Zoo staff are hoping to bring in even more restaurants to ensure a varied selection of cuisines to taste from. \nThe public can upgrade their experience by purchasing a VIP ticket. VIPs will have access to a VIP-only area\, located close to the main stage. They will be able to participate in a private animal feeding and take a break from the main stage music with their own Silent Disco in the Aquarium. Plus\, VIPs will also get to sample from one exclusive beer that no one else will be able to access. \nPRESALE TICKETS\nVIP TICKETS\nThe entertainment for the night will include local artists: EDM DJ\, Akasha\, and rock bands\, The Reynalds and Reserve. The music will be extended until 11:00 p.m. to allow guests even more time to enjoy the event. There will also be three Silent Disco DJs for VIPs to choose from based on their music preferences. \nA popular activity at Brew at the Zoo is the beer pong tournament that takes place during the event. Sixteen teams made up of Brew at the Zoo attendees will compete against each other to be the 2026 Beer Pong Champs. Guests can gather around while the teams go head-to-head throughout the night. Other fun games and activities include Jumbo Jenga\, cornhole\, a giant Connect Four\, and multiple photo opportunities\, including a 360 photo booth. \nBrew at the Zoo is a 21+ event and a limited number of tickets are being sold. Tickets can be purchased for $40.00 pre-sale and $60.00 at the gate. VIP tickets are $100.00 per person. Only 100 VIP Tickets will be available\, so the public is encouraged to act fast. All proceeds will benefit the Zoo’s conservation efforts. \nThank you to the run sponsors Whataburger\, City of Brownsville\, Brownsville Public Utilities Board\, H-E-B and Visit Brownsville. \nStay in Brownsville\nBrownsville is the perfect family-friendly getaway with a multitude of attractions within walking distance of the Zoo.  Support the Gladys Porter Zoo by using this link to make your hotel reservation.
URL:/event/brew-at-the-zoo/
CATEGORIES:Event
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260606T070000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260606T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20240520T170530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T145546Z
UID:2174-1780729200-1780747200@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Ridley Rush
DESCRIPTION:You are invited to join us for our 10th Annual Ridley Rush 5K/1-Mile Walk/Run presented by Chick-Fil-A.  This family fun run aims to raise awareness for the endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle.  The Ridley Rush route will take you through the beautiful and scenic Mitte Cultural District and Gladys Porter Zoo as you experience what a baby sea turtle must endure in its rush to the ocean. \nAs federal and state funds have dwindled over the years\, this direct funding has become mission-critical to sustain Kemp’s Ridley Project and provide support to other sea turtle projects. The Kemp’s Ridley Project has both a successful track record and the real possibility of down-listing this most iconic of marine animals.  Other proven sea turtle projects may receive funding to promote conservation efforts. \nThe cost to participate in the 5K run is only $35.00 and $30.00 for the 1-mile run per runner. This cost covers a limited edition dri-fit Ridley Rush shirt\, a race bib\, a race medal\, and the entrance to the Zoo for the post-race festival celebrating World Oceans Day! \nREGISTRATION\nA special thanks go out to this year’s Ridley Rush sponsors\, Chick-Fil-A\, H-E-B Helping Here\, Brownsville Public Utilities Board\, CBS 4\, NBC 23\, Visit Brownsville\, and City of Brownsville. 
URL:/event/ridley-rush/
CATEGORIES:Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260621T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260621T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20200320T110926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T154907Z
UID:2176-1782028800-1782061200@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Animal Play Day “World Giraffe Day”
DESCRIPTION:What is World Giraffe Day? It is a world-wide day of recognition for the longest necked animal on the planet. Take part in World Giraffe Day\, established by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. During World Giraffe Day\, the Zoo will have our Giraffe Landing Feeding Experience open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 100% of the proceeds will go directly towards saving giraffes in Africa.  Kids can participate in activities like giraffe mask making\, while learning about giraffe conservation. \nGiraffe are becoming one of the forgotten large mammals of the world. While everyone knows about the terrible waves of elephant poaching that continue to plague the African savannahs\, the degree of giraffe destruction is even worse. There are estimated to be 500\,000 elephants remaining\, while only 100\,000 giraffe are left. For more information about World Giraffe Day\, visit www.worldgiraffeday.org.
URL:/event/animal-play-day-world-giraffe-day/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260725T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260725T150000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20240709T160029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T144908Z
UID:2825-1784973600-1784991600@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Kids Appreciation Day
DESCRIPTION:Your favorite back-to-school event is here! H-E-B presents Kids Appreciation Day at Gladys Porter Zoo! \nDuring Kids Appreciation Day\, the first 1\,000 children at the passport station will receive a backpack filled with school supplies! \n\nThe passport will take them on an adventure throughout the Zoo where they can visit crafts and fun activities centered around this year’s theme\, New World monkeys. Plus stop by our exhibitor tables focusing on health and wellness\, safety\, animal conservation\, and more.\n\nOnce your child’s passport is full\, they can enter a raffle to win an array of prizes like new bikes\, backpacks filled with school supplies\, sports equipment\, and more!\n\nThis event was made possible thanks to H-E-B\, Chick-fil-A\, Brownsville Public Utilities Board\, City of Brownsville\, Digital 101.5\, KVEO Local 23 News\, and CBS 4 News.
URL:/event/kids-appreciation-day/
CATEGORIES:Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260911T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260913T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20200320T114921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T154601Z
UID:2184-1789113600-1789318800@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Brownsville Appreciation Days
DESCRIPTION:Its Brownsville Discount Days at Gladys Porter Zoo\, this Friday\, Saturday\, and Sunday—September 11th\, 12th\, and 13th! \nBrownsville residents can enjoy the Zoo for just two dollars per person. That’s right—get up close with our new emus\, see the gorillas\, and even ride the new Soaring Eagle Zipline.  Just show proof of residency at the gate!
URL:/event/brownsville-appreciation-days/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260918T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260920T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20200320T115708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T154259Z
UID:2186-1789718400-1789923600@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Lower Valley Appreciation Days
DESCRIPTION:It’s Lower Valley Discount Days at Gladys Porter Zoo\, Friday\, Saturday\, and Sunday\, September 18th\, 19th\, and 20th! \nResidents from Cameron and Willacy County can enjoy the Zoo for just six dollars per adult and four dollars per child! That’s right—get up close with our new emus\, see the gorillas\, and even ride the new Soaring Eagle Zipline.  Just show proof of residency at the gate! \nAll residents living in the Lower Valley will be able to visit the Zoo for the special admission price. The Lower Valley includes: Arroyo City\, Bayview\, Bluetown\, Brownsville\, Calaboz\, Carricitos\, Combes\, El Ranchito\, Harlingen\, La Feria\, La Leona\, La Paloma\, La Tina\, Laguna Heights\, Laguna Vista\, Lantana\, Las Rusias\, Las Yescas\, Laureles\, Los Coyotes\, Los Fresnos\, Los Indios\, Lozano\, Lyford\, Matamoros\, Mexico\, Monte Grande\, Olmito\, Porfirio\, Port Isabel\, Port Mansfield\, Primera\, Rancho Viejo\, Rangerville\, Raymondville\, Rio Hondo\, Russelltown\, San Benito\, San Pedro\, San Perlita\, Santa Monica\, Sebastian\, South Padre Island and Willamar. Residents will need to show proof of residency. \nIdentification such as a driver’s license\, utility receipt or school ID will suffice. At least one family member must show proof of residency at the gate.
URL:/event/lower-valley-appreciation-days/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261011T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20260416T155723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T155723Z
UID:3132-1791532800-1791738000@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Upper Valley Appreciation Days
DESCRIPTION:It’s Upper Valley Discount Days at Gladys Porter Zoo\, Friday\, Saturday\, and Sunday\, the 9th\, 10th and 11th of October! Residents from Hidalgo and Starr County can enjoy the Zoo for just six dollars per adult and four dollars per child!  That’s right! – Get up close with our new emus\, see the gorillas and even ride the new Soaring Eagle Zipline. Just show proof of residency at the gate!
URL:/event/upper-valley-appreciation-days/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261030T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261031T210000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20200320T121931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T153714Z
UID:2193-1793383200-1793480400@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Boo at the Zoo
DESCRIPTION:The Gladys Porter Zoo will hold “Boo at the Zoo” celebration Friday\, October 30th and Saturday\, October 31st from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Become a Zoo member and you are eligible to come in early during the members’ only hour from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Come out for a ghoulish good time at this alternative way to trick-or-treat – perfect for kids\, teens and families alike! \nBoo at the Zoo guests of all ages are encouraged to come out in their favorite Halloween costumes. There will be more than 50 different game and treat stations. \nConcessions \nZoo Concessions will have a number of snacks for you and your family to enjoy while at Boo at the Zoo!  Prepare your palate for turkey legs\, roasted corn\, pizza\, popsicles\, Dippin’ Dots\, nachos and more.  Yum! \nZoo members have free access to the event and can get in early starting at 5 p.m. each night by showing their membership card. To alleviate congestion\, there will be a total of three entrances; the main Zoo gate\, a side gate near parking lot (pre-paid admission only)\, and a members-only entrance at the new Membership office. \nPlease be aware that due to construction on Ringgold Street there is no thru access from Palm Blvd. onto Ringgold Street. Parking will be available but is limited so be sure to arrive early or consider carpooling. \nFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS \nWhy should I become a Zoo member?\nSign up to become a member before Boo at the Zoo! Zoo members have free access to the event and can get in as early as 5:00 p.m. each night by showing their membership card with photo ID. Also\, members avoid long lines with special members-only entrance. Call the Zoo at (956) 546-7187 today for membership details! \nCan I purchase my tickets in advance?\nPurchase your Boo at the Zoo tickets in advance at the Zoo’s front office. \nWhere are the entrances?\nMake sure to look for directional signs to enter Boo at the Zoo. There will be a total of three entrances; the main Zoo gate\, a side gate off of 6th St.\, and a members-only entrance at the Zoo’s side exit. \nWhere can I park?\nParking can be a hassle\, so try carpooling if possible. Zoo parking is available but limited. \nDoes the Zoo provide bags for treats?\nSometimes we have a limited supply of treat bags. Remember to bring your own trick-or-treat bags for all your Boo at the Zoo treats and prizes. \nDoes the Zoo have an ATM?\nYes\, but we encourage you to have cash in hand for the event to avoid long lines at the ATM.  We have two ATMs one outside of the main Zoo entrance and the other inside the Zoofari Gift Shop.  To gain access to the ATM in the Zoofari Gift Shop you have to ask Zoo staff located in the stroller and wagon rental station to open the gift shop.  Ticket booths will only be accepting cash to purchase tickets for games and food stations. \nVOLUNTEERS \nThe Zoo is currently accepting volunteer applications\, on a first come\, first serve basis\, for its most popular and spooktacular event of the year! Boo at the Zoo will be held on the evening of October 30th (Friday) and 31st (Saturday) from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. There are only 50 volunteer booths available for the first 50 volunteers groups that turn in their complete application. Space is limited and the deadline for accepting applications is October 14th. If volunteer space is filled prior to deadline\, applications submitted after space is filled will not be considered. \nZOO MEMBERS \nZoo membership has its privileges like free admission to “Boo at the Zoo” and special members-only hour at 5 p.m.  The members’ only entrance is located in the new Membership building. \nBoo at the Zoo member tickets are available for pick-up in the Zoo office during regular hours of operation.  Members will need to show proof of their membership by bringing their cards and a driver’s license. If the cards were lost or stolen\, please contact the Zoo office at (956) 546-7187 ext. 310 or email mems@gpz.org to make arrangements to purchase replacement cards. \nWant to learn more about becoming a Zoo member or purchase a membership?  Check out our membership benefits page.
URL:/event/boo-at-the-zoo/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261114T150000
DTSTAMP:20260421T072332
CREATED:20240131T160335Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T152524Z
UID:2663-1794650400-1794668400@gpz.org
SUMMARY:Wild Tales
DESCRIPTION:One of the highest zoo attendance days for November is the day we hold our literacy event\, Wild Tales. Over 3\,000 people are present for the literacy and reading activities. The live animals and children’s book authors are the two main draws to the event. Over 1\,000 children’s books are given out free to young readers. \nThe Zoo also offers a discounted school admission rate for all guests on this day: $6.00 for elementary and middle school students\, $6.00 for high school and college students\, and $7.00 for adults. The event is free with paid Zoo admission. Members get in free. According\nto statistics for our region\, for every 300 children living in a low-income household\, only one book is owned in that home. The issue mentioned above\, coupled with other factors as to why children don’t read\, only adds to the lack of personal growth and less than high quality of life for each child. \nThank you to the run sponsors Brownsville Public Utilities Board\, City of Brownsville\, and Visit Brownsville. \nStay in Brownsville\nBrownsville is the perfect family-friendly getaway with a multitude of attractions within walking distance of the Zoo.  Support the Gladys Porter Zoo by using this link to make your hotel reservation.
URL:/event/wild-tales/
CATEGORIES:Event
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