SPILLING THE BEANS…
Join us on the first Thursday of each month from 5:00–7:00 pm for the “Spilling the Beans…” Speaker Series. Each month, expert hosts dive into a fresh topic or species, so there’s always something new and exciting to learn. Doors open at 5 pm. Seating is limited in the cafe, but we will work to reserve a chair for you if you RSVP for the event.
5:00 PM: Doors Open
5:30 PM: Speaker Presentation Begins
6:30 PM: Question & Answer
7:00 PM: Event Ends
Research at the Zoo
AUGUST 6, 2026 // 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Modern, accredited zoos attend to three critical areas: Conservation, Education, and Research. Dr. Jenna Congdon’s ‘Cognition, Learning, & Animal Welfare’ (C.L.A.W.) Laboratory has been developing a research program, working towards the collective goal of further understanding animal perception, and providing insight regarding enrichment and welfare. Collaborations with zoos and conservation areas allow for the ability to gather data on scientific questions about mental processes (i.e., cognition) while simultaneously improving animal welfare through environmental enrichment, revising best practices for housing and care, and informing conservation efforts for their wild counterparts. This talk will provide details regarding the research being conducted at the Edmonton Valley Zoo, highlighting the impact of these findings on our animals and beyond.
Canada Lynx & the Aspen Parkland
SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 // 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Discover the world of Canada lynx and their life in the Aspen Parkland, which has been pivotal in Project Carnivora to help us create a wonderful, brand new habitat for our Canada lynx here at the Edmonton Valley Zoo.
MIGRATORY BIRDS
OCTOBER 1, 2026 // 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
THE EDMONTON VALLEY ZOO MASTERPLAN AND POLAR BEARS INTERNATIONAL
NOVEMBER 5, 2026 // 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
With the release of the Edmonton Valley Zoo's 10- to 15-year Masterplan, come join us to hear from the team members involved in developing the brand new areas of the zoo, including information related to Polar Bears International.
HOST
AN EVENT.
AT WILD NEIGHBOURS CAFE.
Searching for the perfect venue for your next meeting or private event? The Wild Neighbours Café is ready to host you! With a seating capacity of 60, our cozy café offers an inviting atmosphere ideal for any gathering. For details on pricing, menus, and availability, reach out to us at cafe@buildingourzoo.com.
If you’re planning a full facility rental, we can arrange to have the café open—just contact us at specialmoments@edmonton.ca.
Let us help make your event truly special.