Summer may be winding down, but Philadelphia Zoo is making sure the season ends on a high note. America’s First Zoo has unveiled its End-of-Summer Spectacular, a month-long series of events running through September 13 that offers something for every age and interest, from craft beer enthusiasts and art lovers to families, animal fans and car collectors.
With a packed calendar of celebrations across its 42-acre campus, Philadelphia Zoo is inviting guests to experience the Zoo in entirely new ways while supporting its mission of animal care, conservation and education.
“Philadelphia Zoo is a place where there is always something new to discover, experience and remember,” said President & CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman. “No two visits are quite the same, and our end-of-summer celebrations give families and friends even more reasons to come together, experience the wonder of wildlife and make lasting memories.”
One of the season’s most anticipated events is the return of the Summer Ale Festival on August 22. Known as the wildest beer festival in the region, the adults-only event features more than 100 beers, ciders, seltzers, mead, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages from dozens of vendors. Guests can enjoy live performances by Philadelphia-area bands while exploring the Zoo after hours and visiting iconic animal habitats, including big cats and great apes.
For those looking for a more relaxed evening, Philadelphia Zoo After Hours presented by Surfside takes place August 28. Visitors can enjoy extended Zoo hours, live music and a chance to explore the all-new Carey Bear Country, a $25 million transformation designed to enhance the lives of the Zoo’s bears while creating deeper guest connections. Visitors can also take a ride on the popular Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel, available only through 2026.
Art enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy during the inaugural Philadelphia Zoo Art Festival on August 29. The family-friendly event showcases more than 30 local artists and makers offering nature-inspired creations, photography, ceramics, jewelry, handcrafted goods and even artwork created by Philadelphia Zoo animals. Live music and light bites add to the festive atmosphere.
Families with young children can mark their calendars for the Teddy Bear Picnic featuring the Berenstain Bears on September 5. Mama and Papa Berenstain Bear will make special appearances as guests enjoy scavenger hunts, a Teddy Bear Clinic hosted by the Zoo’s veterinary team, lawn games, face painting and more. The event also celebrates the opening of Carey Bear Country and encourages children to bring along their favorite stuffed companions.
Rounding out the End-of-Summer Spectacular is the inaugural Philadelphia Zoo Car Show Presented by Pep Boys on September 13. Guests can explore more than 100 classic and high-end vehicles while also learning simple ways drivers can help protect the environment. Included with Zoo admission, the event combines automotive excitement with the Zoo’s ongoing commitment to conservation.
Beyond these seasonal events, visitors can experience many of the Zoo’s popular attractions, including Zoo360 animal trails, Lemur Island, Wings of Asia, Big Cat Falls, the PECO Primate Reserve and African Plains.
As Philadelphia celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, Philadelphia Zoo’s End-of-Summer Spectacular offers a fitting finale to the season, bringing together wildlife, conservation, entertainment and community in one unforgettable destination. Whether you’re raising a glass at Summer Ale Fest, discovering handcrafted art, meeting beloved storybook characters or admiring classic cars, there is no shortage of reasons to make one more trip to the Zoo before summer says goodbye.