Toledo Zoo to Host Solar Eclipse Event on Monday, April 8
TOLEDO, Ohio, March 18, 2024 - The Toledo Zoo is excited to announce a special event, "Total Eclipse at the Zoo," taking place on Monday, April 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This unique experience allows visitors to witness the solar eclipse from the path of totality, accompanied by a range of engaging activities suitable for all ages. Lucas County residents can enjoy free admission from 10 a.m. to noon with proof of residency, thanks to the zoo's commitment to its local community.
Activities throughout the day include animal demonstrations, character meet & greets, a bounce house, musical entertainment, and various other fun-filled engagements. Guests can also collaborate with Zoo staff in animal observations and research to witness firsthand how the animals respond to the celestial phenomenon.
“We're thrilled to offer this rare viewing opportunity to our community and visitors. Witnessing a total solar eclipse among the animals adds a unique layer to an already incredible event," said Jen Brassil, director of PR & Communications Events at the Zoo. “We invite guests to come for the eclipse, and stay for the fun interactions and enriching experiences throughout the day.”
For eclipse viewing, the Toledo Zoo will be distributing free eclipse glasses to attendees, while supplies last. Guests are invited to gather at the historic Amphitheatre to witness the darkness of the eclipse and the sounds of the Zoo.
Admission to the eclipse-related activities is included with general Zoo admission. This event provides a space for families, friends, and individuals alike to come together, connect with nature, and share in the wonder of the total solar eclipse. In addition, as part of our Conda Family Zoo For All program, a Sensory Area will be available in the ProMedica Museum of Natural History. This area is designed as a quiet zone, offering sensory-friendly activities with dedicated staff and volunteers ready to support any sensory needs. For other information about our accessibility features, you can visit https://www.toledozoo.org/accessibility.
For the schedule of events, and an opportunity to livestream some of our animal exhibits, monitoring their behavior during the eclipse, please visit https://www.toledozoo.org/events/total-eclipse
This work is supported by the Simons Foundation as part of its "In the Path of Totality" initiative.
For more information about the Toledo Zoo and its events please visit https://toledozoo.org/.
The Simons Foundation’s Science, Society and Culture division seeks to provide opportunities for people to forge a connection to science — whether for the first time or a lifetime. Through our initiatives, we work to inspire a feeling of awe and wonder, foster connections between people and science, and support environments that provide a sense of belonging. The Simons Foundation’s mission is to advance the frontiers of research in mathematics and the basic sciences. Since its founding in 1994 by Jim and Marilyn Simons, the foundation has been a champion of basic science through grant funding, support for research and public engagement. We believe in asking big questions and providing sustained support to researchers working to unravel the mysteries of the universe. Through our work we make space for scientific discovery.
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, situated in Toledo, Ohio, proudly holds membership in the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Boasting a diverse collection, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is home to more than 10,000 individual animals spanning 720 species. Actively engaged in conservation efforts, the Zoo participates in over 80 species survival programs. With a robust community of over 70,000 members, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium welcomes over 1 million visitors annually.
