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- Animal
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- AppreciationWork
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- United States
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- Week starting with the 3rd Sunday of July
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National ZooKeeper Week begins on the third Sunday of July each year, running from July 19 through 25 in 2026. This week-long observance appreciates the tireless work, profound passion, and critical conservation efforts of zookeepers. Show your gratitude, learn about their vital role, and support animal welfare initiatives.
Want to sponsor National ZooKeeper Week? Learn how
Expected National ZooKeeper Week Deals
National ZooKeeper Week is a time for appreciation rather than commercial deals, but many zoos and related organizations offer special recognition programs. Look for zoos to host behind-the-scenes tours, educational events, and keeper talks. Some local businesses, particularly those near zoos, may offer discounts or freebies to zookeepers with valid ID. Animal welfare organizations like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) often highlight fundraising drives or donation matching programs during this week to support animal care and conservation projects. Brands like Chewy or PetSmart might run promotions on animal care supplies, with a portion of proceeds benefiting zoo initiatives. We will update this page with confirmed live programs as July 2027 approaches.
Platform Guide for National ZooKeeper Week
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalZooKeeperWeek. Share stories of inspiring zookeepers or discuss the profession’s impact.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalZooKeeperWeek. Post photos or reels of your favorite zoo animals, giving a shout-out to their keepers.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalZooKeeperWeek. Share articles about conservation efforts or local zoo events.
National ZooKeeper Week Hero
Jack Hanna
History of National ZooKeeper Week
Following the efforts of the American Association of ZooKeepers (AAZK), the third week of July was made National ZooKeeper Week by the U.S. Congress in the year 2007. The official mission of this week is to “recognize and promote dedicated zoo and aquarium professionals year-round, culminating in an annual celebration.”
We all have visited zoos in our childhood and even as adults. Zoo visits have often been part of school field trips as they are a great place to learn about animals and expand our knowledge. However, we often overlook the unsung heroes who work to keep the zoos and their animals in the best conditions possible — the zookeepers. This week aims to honor the hard work, dedication, fun, patience, and professionalism that goes into this profession and the efforts put in by every member. Furthermore, it seeks to highlight the diversity of zookeepers and their contributions to global conservation efforts.
Zookeepers are extremely passionate people and they work towards inspiring people to care about animals and make a place for them in their hearts. They strive to tell you the unique and compelling story of each animal and species. There is a lot going on behind the scenes such as animal health checks, maintenance programs, etc. Zookeepers are constantly upskilling by attending training sessions and conferences to learn new ways to provide better care for animals.
Now, across the United States, AAZK chapters and zoos celebrate National Zoo Keeper Week during the third week of July.
National ZooKeeper Week timeline
Henry III moves his private royal menagerie to the Tower of London for public viewing
The Imperial Menagerie in Vienna, Austria, is established.
The Zoological Society of London is formed, which gives birth to the abbreviation ‘zoo.’
Berlin Zoo is established and is home to nearly 20,000 animals across thousands of species
How Businesses Can Celebrate National ZooKeeper Week
Local businesses can show appreciation for zookeepers during this week by offering special discounts or complimentary services to zoo staff. Restaurants could create themed menu items with a portion of proceeds benefiting a local zoo’s conservation fund. Retailers might highlight products related to animal care or wildlife, perhaps hosting a donation drive for animal enrichment items. Partnering with a local zoo for a joint educational event or a ‘thank a zookeeper’ campaign can also build community goodwill.
National ZooKeeper Week FAQs
When is National ZooKeeper Week?
National ZooKeeper Week 2026 runs from Sunday, July 19 through Saturday, July 25. This annual observance highlights the vital contributions of zookeepers to animal welfare and global conservation efforts.
How many zookeepers are there in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 17,000 animal care and service workers, including zookeepers, in the United States. This dedicated group ensures the well-being of countless animals.
What is the average salary of a zookeeper?
The median annual salary for animal care and service workers, including zookeepers, was around $33,000 in May 2023, though this can vary significantly based on experience, location, and the size of the institution. Many zookeepers are driven by passion more than pay.
What training is required to become a zookeeper?
Most zookeepers hold a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, animal science, or a related field. Practical experience, often gained through internships or volunteer work at zoos or wildlife centers, is also highly valued and often a prerequisite.
How to Observe National ZooKeeper Week
Read about zookeeping
Ever considered having a career in zookeeping? You can use this week to read up about zookeeping from the American Association of Zoo Keepers. This will help you decide if this profession is of interest to you and how you can go about building a career in this field if need be.
Volunteer at a local zoo
There’s no better way to learn about zookeeping than actually doing it yourself. You can volunteer to assist a zookeeper at a local zoo and see their efforts and passion. You can even get a chance to observe animal behavior and learn more about the species.
Express gratitude to a zookeeper
Head to a local zoo and express your gratitude to a zookeeper on duty. Let them know you understand the hard work they put in to provide a quality life for the animals and an enriching experience for the visitors. It will make their day and motivate them.
5 Interesting Facts About Zoos
World’s largest zoo
The world’s largest zoo is Chester Zoo in England, with over 21,000 animals.
World’s best zoo
The San Diego Zoo has often been nominated as one of the best zoos in the world.
The U.S. has the most zoos
The United States has the highest number of zoos with around 371
The first zoo in the world
The first zoo was built in Paris, France, which was called the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plante.
The first zoo in the U.S.
The United States’ first zoo opened in New York and was called the Central Park Zoo.
Why National ZooKeeper Week is Important
Zookeepers keep animals healthy
Zookeepers are responsible for the diet and upkeep of animals in zoos. They look after their daily food intake and keep a close check on them to identify any issues. They ensure that the animals are healthy and living their best lives without any trouble or pain.
Zookeepers educate visitors
While zookeepers look after the animals, they carry out another important task — they educate all visitors who come to see the beautiful residing animals. They spread awareness on species and teach us everything there is to know about a particular animal.
Zookeepers have a physically exhausting job
As fun and enriching as it sounds, zookeeping requires a great amount of stamina and excellent health. It is a physically demanding job and will keep you on your feet for the most part of the day, regardless of the weather conditions. Zookeepers carry out their duties with determination and passion.
National ZooKeeper Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | July 19–25 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2027 | July 18–24 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2028 | July 16–22 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2029 | July 15–21 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2030 | July 21–27 | Sunday–Saturday |
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