Social Events

SOLD OUT! Waitlist Available
Pre-Conference Tour: Little Rock Zoo
Friday, March 15, 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
Additional $60 fee per person

Join us at the Little Rock Zoo for a look into the heart and soul of a mid-sized AZA-accredited zoo. Help kick-off the opening of a new animatronic show featuring 14 larger-than life dragons and learn about new capital construction projects breaking ground in 2024. Zoo staff will take colleagues behind-the-scenes in key areas and also share animal husbandry best practices. Guest Services and Marketing staff will share their preparation work for managing the 100-year eclipse of totality occurring over Little Rock on April 8, 2024. More than 500,000 visitors are expected to ascend on Little Rock during this unique occurrence. A delicious catered lunch and snacks will be provided along with a unique swag bag of Arkansas goodies.

Fee includes lunch, afternoon snack, and transportation.

Welcome Reception with Exhibitors, hosted by AZA
Grand Ballroom, Renasant Convention Center
Monday, March 18, 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
This event takes the place of an Icebreaker and is included with all registrations.

Zoo Day at the Memphis Zoo

Tuesday, March 19, 1:30 pm - 8:00 pm
One ticket is included in a full registration and 3-day (when Tuesday is selected). Additional tickets can be purchased for $65 each.

Join us for an unforgettable adventure at Memphis Zoo! As proud members of AZA, we invite you to experience a spectacular Zoo Day at one of the top-ranked zoological parks in the nation. Not only has Memphis Zoo earned national accolades, but it also boasts global appeal, offering visitors a journey across the world without leaving Memphis! With over 3,500 animals representing more than 500 different species and habitats, Memphis Zoo guarantees exciting encounters with both familiar and new creatures. You can explore one-of-a-kind exhibits like Cat Country, Primate Canyon, Animals of the Night, Northwest Passage, Teton Trek, CHINA, and Zambezi River Hippo Camp.

After a fun-filled day at the Zoo, we welcome you to join us for a cocktail reception from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM and a delicious dinner from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM. Indulge in a Memphis-themed menu and enjoy entertainment featuring the sweet sounds of Elvis Presley and the Blues. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow AZA members, share experiences, and create lasting memories.

Buses will depart beginning at 1:30 PM from the intersection of Main Street and Exchange Street and will run continuously throughout the evening. The last bus will depart the Memphis Zoo at 8:00 PM.