Zoo Events

Zoo Partner Days

Courtesy of our incredible partners, free admission is granted at the Zoo on special occasions throughout the year.

Asian Lantern Festival

Thursday, July 9 through Saturday, September 12

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

6:30 - 10:30 p.m.

Experience the wonder of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo illuminated after dark, featuring live acrobatic performances every hour on the Fifth Third Bank Stage and a variety of culturally inspired cuisine at the MetroHealth Asian Food Market. Join us for a spectacular drone show on the final night of Asian Lantern Festival!

Race to the Cake 5K

September 18, 2026

7:00 p.m.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

The Big Squish

Help Cleveland Metroparks stop the invasion of the spotted lantern fly. Bring the whole family to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on Monday, September 21 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. for a FREE, fun, hands-on event. You'll learn how to spot spotted lanternfly egg masses, nymphs and adults and help us squash them on the spot.