Celebrate the Santa Ana Zoo’s birthday and Free Resident Day on Sunday, March 19

Join the Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park to celebrate the Zoo’s 71st birthday on March 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1801 E Chestnut Avenue. The event takes place on Free Resident Day, when Santa Ana residents get free admission to the Zoo.

The birthday celebration includes an all-zoo scavenger hunt with animal education activities and birthday enrichment treats for the animals.

Santa Ana residents receive free admission to the Zoo on the third Sunday of every month. Proof of residency (such as ID or a utility bill) is required.

Did you know that multiple animals at the Zoo were born in the month of March? Guests will love searching the Zoo for these special party animals and writing birthday greetings to their new friends! Look for giant anteaters, camels, lemurs, ocelots, sloths and the Zoo’s famous monkeys!

During the event, birthday guests will love visiting the Crean Family Farm and the “Flight” Butterfly Habitat. Zoofari Express Train Ride, Conservation Carrousel and Fifty Monkey Ferris Wheel tickets are available for an additional cost. Children under 3 are free to ride with a paid adult on all three rides. The Zoo’s conservation friendly playground and multiple picnic areas are also open to guests at no additional charge.

“For 71 years The Santa Ana Zoo has remained one of Southern California’s most memorable places for families and friends to come together, enjoy wildlife and learn about conservation and the wonders of nature,” says FOSAZ Executive Director Cat Decker. “We are thrilled to once again share our birthday celebration with the community and our growing family of wild animal friends!”