Welcome to Lincoln Park Zoo’s new newsletter, which will share accessible programs and resources for guests who identify as disabled. If you have questions, please emailaccess@lpzoo.org.

Sensory-Friendly Morning takes place on Sunday, September 21, from 8–10 a.m. Come to the zoo to enjoy free hours during which guests can independently explore the zoo with limited crowds. Animal buildings and attractions are open.Please register here.

Sensory-Friendly Night atZooLights Presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQis a holiday favorite that features static lights, lower music, and limited crowd size. Sensory-friendly ZooLights will be on November 25 and offers all the same amenities as a typical ZooLights evening in a supportive and inclusive environment. Tickets for this night can be purchased with other ZooLights tickets and will go on sale in early October.

Sharing Wellness and Nature, or SWAN, is Lincoln Park Zoo’s premium program for adults (18+) living with Down syndrome and their friends or family members.

A small group of guests experiences private demonstrations on animal care, meets with zoo experts, socializes together, and participates in mindfulness activities. Monthly Monday sessions provide a unique chance to learn about the zoo’s dedication to animal care in a private and supportive environment.

Sessions will involve some travel across zoo grounds and may be held partially outdoors. Seating is provided at demonstrations, but there may be space restrictions. For this reason, spots in this program are limited. SWAN is a partnership between Lincoln Park Zoo and Dr. Evguenia Popova from Rush University.

SWAN takes place on September 8, October 6, November 3, and December 1 from 9:30–11 a.m. Tickets can be purchased for individual sessions or a full season.Lincoln Park Zoo membersreceive a discount on all tickets.Purchase tickets here.

DreamNight is an inclusive experience for families impacted by severe and chronic illness. Join Lincoln Park Zoo staff for this VIP event on Friday, September 12, which includes dinner, animal building access, attractions, and more. DreamNight is a self-paced experience, so you can arrive and leave on your own schedule. This is a free event, but capacity is limited and requires registration.Get tickets here.

Memory Enrichment at Lincoln Park Zoo is a welcoming place for people living with dementia and their loved ones and care partners. Socialize with friends of all ages and explore wildlife and nature with zoo staff. Activities include crafts, games, animal chats, music, low-impact movement, and more.

Memory Enrichment takes place the third Friday of each month. Loved ones and care partners must stay for the duration of the program. Memory Enrichment is intended to be restorative for all guests.

This is a free program, but registration is required. Space is extremely limited.Register here!

We are excited to invite passionate and dedicated folks to join the volunteer team at Lincoln Park Zoo.As a volunteer, you can make a significant impact on connecting people with nature by working hands-on in various roles throughout Lincoln Park Zoo.

Why Volunteer With Us?

• Make a difference:Your time and efforts directly contribute to the operations of Lincoln Park Zoo, from answering visitor questions to working alongside horticulturists—your work matters.
• Gain experience:Learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a variety of areas, including animal welfare monitoring, interpretation, guest engagement, gardening, and more.
• Be part of a community:Join a team of passionate individuals who are committed to creating positive change.
  

To learn more about the zoo's volunteer opportunities and fill out the general interest form, please visit thewebsite. Volunteer positions open in January.