Lunar New Year Celebration

About the Event

Celebrate good fortune this Lunar New Year, a holiday recognized throughout many East and Southeast Asian countries. 2025 is the Year of the Snake, and those born during this zodiac year are known for being intuitive, thoughtful, and loyal. This year is represented by the wood snake, symbolizing playfulness, elegance, and transformation.

Join us for Lunar New Year and Wild Weekend: Asia at the San Diego Zoo on Saturday and Sunday. Discover fun activities for the whole family and be inspired by the conservation work you make possible through our Asia Conservation Hub. Together we’re making a difference for vulnerable and endangered Asian wildlife, including giant pandas, and their dynamic ecosystems. Good wishes and hope for the future await you at the Zoo.

Activities:

Meet a Wildlife Care Specialist
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Various Locations
Chat with wildlife care specialists and get fascinating insights on iconic Asian wildlife, including bears and big cats. Plus you’ll learn more about the incredible conservation work you make possible to safeguard their future.

Sloth Bear: 10 a.m., Center Street in Asian Passage
Tigers: 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m., Tiger Trail in Lost Forest
Sun Bears: 11:30 a.m., Sun Bear Forest in Asian Passage
Asian Leopards: 12:30 p.m., Asian Passage
Red Pandas: 2 p.m., Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

Ask a Horticulturist
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Asian Passage
Explore the wonders of orchids, nepenthes, and other diverse plants across dynamic, vast landscapes. Take a deep dive into Asia’s lush ecosystems with our team of horticulturalists to discover their vibrant and fascinating plant life.

Chat with a Conservationist
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Asian Passage
Discover how we’re collaborating with partners through our Asia Conservation Hub and how our conservation efforts are creating a world where all life thrives.

Wishes for Conservation
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Asian Passage
Share your wish for wildlife and hang it on one of our wishing trees. Then receive a red envelope with a gift inside, a celebrated tradition for Lunar New Year.

Crafts for Everyone
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Asian Passage
Take home a giant panda ear craft and make your own rattle drum—a historical and renowned instrument.

Photo Opportunities
Select times from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Asian Passage
Meet Bamboo Panda, one of our favorite Zoo characters, and snap a picture together commemorating your Lunar New Year and Wild Weekend fun at the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

Flavors of Asia
9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Hua Mei Café
Enjoy flavorful specialties and unique Lunar New Year favorites all weekend long.

Early Morning with Pandas Walking Tour
Reservation Required
Greet giant pandas as they start their day! On this 60-minute tour, our wildlife experts will lead you on a guided stroll through rolling hills to an unforgettable experience at Panda Ridge. Black, white, and loved all over, you’ll connect with this intriguing species as you learn about panda care and conservation at the Zoo. Purchase your reservation ahead of time, as spaces are limited.

Inside Look Tours
Reservation required
On this entertaining and educational 90-minute adventure, our expert guide will escort your group around in a cart. It’s perfect for a family outing, as you’ll discover stories and sights you can’t find anywhere else and experience wildlife like never before. Make your reservation ahead of time, as spaces are limited.

Live Wildlife Cameras
Tune in from wherever you are to the Giant Panda and Ape Cams live every day from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Conservation Begins With You
Share your love for dynamic Asian wildlife and bring home a special keepsake. Your purchases help safeguard the future of vulnerable and endangered species, including giant pandas, across our Asia Conservation Hub.

Be a Wildlife Ally
Your visits to the Zoo and continued support as an ally help save, protect, and care for wildlife here in San Diego and across the globe. Become a hero for wildlife with a monthly gift today!

Wildlife Adoptions
Your symbolic adoptions of giant pandas, Sumatran tigers, and red pandas help support critical conservation efforts that benefit our Asia Conservation Hub and other iconic wildlife worldwide.

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