Fort Wayne Zoo details opening day festivities, new additions for 2026 season

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - The Fort Wayne Zoo’s 2026 season is nearly here!

The zoo will open on Friday, April 24.

According to the zoo, opening day festivities will begin at 9 a.m. in its Entrance Plaza, featuring musical performances and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“Each season brings a new and exciting opportunity for the community to be a part of our mission, and we look forward to another amazing year connecting kids and animals, strengthening families, and inspiring people to care,” Fort Wayne Zoo’s Executive Director, Rick Schuiteman, said.

The zoo will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 31.

The zoo says it has welcomed several new animals, including baby Sumatran orangutan ‘Raya’, Victoria crowned pigeon ‘ABBA’, Luzon bleeding heart dove ‘Boden’, white-throated ground dove ‘Hanta’, Mandarin ducks ‘Cara, Jaffa, and Seville’, reticulated python ‘Miki’, and harbor seal ‘Bubba’.

A new wildebeest, California sea lion, Zebra, and more are also expected to arrive later in the season.

Aside from animals, additions to the zoo include ‘Fun Fridays’ and a new electric train.

The zoo says ‘Fun Fridays’, held on select Fridays between June 12 and August 28, will offer extended hours for discounted rates.

The new electric train replaces the zoo’s original diesel engine, which it says is being retired after more than 60 years of service.

“We are proud to be a pillar in the community that welcomes everyone, hosts events that inspire the next generation, and connects people with wildlife in new and exciting ways,” Schuiteman said. “We are excited for families to create new, lasting memories at the Fort Wayne Zoo.”

To learn more about the Fort Wayne Zoo, click here.

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