Events FAQ

All events are held rain or shine. While certain venues offer covered outdoor or indoor areas, others are entirely outdoors. Events will not be moved, rescheduled, or extended due to weather, so we encourage hosts and guests to plan accordingly.

All décor and give-away items must be pre-approved by the Event Manager. Examples of unacceptable items are: balloons, straws, glass bottles or containers, any objects intended for throwing (such as balls, Frisbees, paddleballs, confetti, rice and silly string), glow sticks and necklaces, flashlights, pom-poms, noisemakers, or any items that can be ingested by animals.

No open flames are permitted on Zoo grounds or facilities at any time. Flammable items such as fireworks, sparklers, candles, etc. are not permitted. Open grilling or cooking is not allowed on Zoo grounds including in our Picnic Grove.

Any indoor or outdoor activities involving unusual noises or visuals (e.g. mascots, stilt walkers, walking musicians, unicyclists, dance groups, games, etc.) must be pre-approved by the Event Manager.

The Zoo does not have storage space available for event materials. All items needed for your event should be brought with you on the day of the event and taken with you immediately afterward, unless other arrangements have been made with the Event Manager.

If you need to ship items to the Zoo, please coordinate with the Event Manager in advance. A handling fee of up to $50 will apply per shipment. Deliveries should arrive during normal receiving hours and no earlier than two days before your event. The Zoo is not responsible for late deliveries. To help keep our spaces clean and ready for guests, a $150 removal fee will be applied to your final bill for any company-related, branded, promotional materials, or giveaway items left behind after the event.

For the safety of our guests and animals, vehicles are not permitted inside the Zoo during public hours. Any deliveries requiring trucks must be communicated and coordinated ahead of time with the designated Zoo representative.

Food and beverage is provided by the Zoo’s exclusive on-site caterer, Aramark. Aramark Sports + Entertainment elevates the guest experience with high-quality catering and food and beverage services. Aramark delivers diverse, locally inspired, and innovative menu offerings that create unforgettable dining experiences for guests throughout the year. Speak with an Event Manager to learn more.

Outside vendors, such as entertainment, florists, photographers, etc. are welcome at the Zoo. All vendors must be approved prior to the event. Vendors must provide details of their service/product, delivery timing, setup and breakdown timing, and any other needed arrangements to the Zoo at least fifteen (15) days prior to the Event. Vendor information and certificate of insurance must be provided to the Event Manager at least fifteen (15) days prior to the Event.

To secure your event date, time, and venue, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required within fifteen (15) business days of signing your Agreement.

With an active membership of any level, you will receive 10% off of your base venue rental price. Mention your Membership to your Event Manager to receive this discount. Learn more about Zoo membership here.

Philadelphia Zoo Memberships, Complimentary Admission tickets or Corporate Giving tickets cannot be used towards admission to any private event.