This adults-only night at the Calgary Zoo lets you hang out with penguins

If you’ve ever wondered what penguins are doing after the zoo closes, this is your chance to find out.

This adults-only night at the Calgary Zoo gets you behind-the-scenes access to the Penguin Plunge habitat, followed by a night full of food, stories, and up-close animal moments that you wouldn’t typically get during your usual visit.

Now, let’s waddle into the details of the event.

A night with penguins

The evening starts with after-hours access to the Penguin Plunge habitat, and it’s one of those moments where everything feels a bit calmer than your regular zoo visit.

You’ll get the chance to observe the penguins without the crowds rushing past, which already makes it feel worth it.

Then head over to the Safari Lodge, where you’ll receive a full dinner experience. You get a welcome drink, then a four-course meal while the evening slows down a bit.

During dinner, the staff will share stories and behind-the-scenes moments that will give you a much deeper look at the penguins and how they are cared for.

Plan your visit

The event will take place over two weekends in May, giving you a couple of chances to plan a night out. It will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with early entry if you want to wander the zoo a bit first.

Penguin access starts at 5 p.m., with dinner kicking off around 6:30 p.m., and the night wrapping up by 9 p.m.

Tickets are $130 plus GST per person, with a discount for groups of eight or more.

It’s important to note that tickets for this event can only be purchased online, and the sale ends at midnight two days before the event.

Overall, this event is an amazing way to do something a bit different in the city. You get quiet time with the penguins, a full dinner, and behind-the-scenes stories from the people who know them best, all without your usual zoo crowds.

When: Saturday, May 2, and Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 210 St. George’s Dr. NE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $130+ GST

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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