Audubon Zoo Celebrates National Zoo Lovers Day

The zoo highlights its conservation mission and upcoming events for families and adults.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:54am

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Audubon Zoo in New Orleans is using National Zoo Lovers Day to emphasize its role in conservation and education, not just entertainment. The zoo is preparing for a busy spring season with events like Kids Zoo-To-Do and the Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do gala fundraiser. Visitors say they enjoy the variety of animals and the opportunity to connect with nature and the community at the zoo.

Why it matters

Zoos play an important role in conservation efforts and inspiring people to be better stewards of the environment. As one of New Orleans' top attractions, the Audubon Zoo's events and programming help drive tourism and community engagement.

The details

Audubon Zoo's Animal Ambassador Program Manager Rachel Davison said zoos are not just places of entertainment, but also centers of conservation and education. The zoo's conservation efforts include both local and global initiatives, along with educational experiences designed to connect visitors to wildlife. With spring in New Orleans, the zoo is gearing up for a busy event season, including the family-friendly Kids Zoo-To-Do and the adult-focused Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do gala fundraiser featuring food, drinks, and entertainment.

  • National Zoo Lovers Day is celebrated on April 8, 2026.
  • Kids Zoo-To-Do is scheduled for an upcoming spring date.
  • The Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do gala is set for May 1, 2026.

The players

Rachel Davison

Animal Ambassador Program Manager at Audubon Zoo.

Audubon Zoo

A zoo located in New Orleans, Louisiana that focuses on conservation and education efforts.

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What they’re saying

“Zoos are not just places of entertainment. They are places of conservation… really inspiring our guests to be good stewards of their environment.”

— Rachel Davison, Animal Ambassador Program Manager

“We love the zoo because it's a fun, safe place for us to come with our babies.”

— Unidentified zoo visitor

“The lions… Monkey Hill… crocodiles… it has a bunch of animals.”

— Unidentified zoo visitor

What’s next

The Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do gala fundraiser is scheduled for May 1, 2026, where guests can enjoy food, drinks, entertainment, and a silent auction to support the zoo's conservation and education efforts.

The takeaway

Audubon Zoo's National Zoo Lovers Day celebration highlights how modern zoos serve as important hubs for wildlife conservation, environmental education, and community engagement - offering both fun family experiences and meaningful ways for visitors to connect with nature.