As a valued member of our Patron programme, you'll be invited to a range of exclusive online and in-person events. These unique experiences are designed to bring you closer to the heart of ZSL’s vital work, offering you an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look like never before. Keep an eye on your inbox, as you'll be the first to hear about all our upcoming Patron events. We look forward to you and your guests joining us on an unforgettable journey to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
Exclusive upcoming events
ZSL in Action: Highlights from 2025
Thursday 22 January, 2pm-3pm
In this online event, you’ll hear from experts on the ground about the exciting work taking place across ZSL. We’ll shine the spotlight on some of our highlights from 2025, which are only possible thanks to your support.
ZSL Wild Talks - Trailblazers & Pioneers: 200 Years of Wildlife Science
Tuesday 3 February, 6pm-7.30pm, Huxley Lecture Theatre, London Zoo
The first of our ZSL 200 Anniversary Lecture series looks back at the pioneers who changed how we understand animals, and the projects shaping the future of conservation.
Book your FREE slot here.
Patron Morning with the Primates
Saturday 28 February, 8.15am-10.30am, London Zoo
Enjoy seeing some of our primates start their day at our next Patron morning at London Zoo. You will be taken on a guided tour before the zoo opens to visitors, with refreshments and the opportunity to meet fellow supporters.
ZSL Wild Talks - Breaking Barriers: Women in Wildlife
Tuesday 10 March, 6pm-8pm, Huxley Lecture Theatre, London Zoo
From Sophia Raffles to Joan Procter to Dame Georgina Mace, women have always been a driving force in ZSL’s story. This lecture celebrates their impact and showcases today’s women leading vital projects across the globe. There will also be the opportunity to meet some of our female Trustees, and hear how you could get involved further in the Governance of ZSL.
Book your FREE slot here.
Exclusive early openings at our Conservation Zoos
Next date: Sunday 22 March 2026
Swing by on four selected Sundays a week before school holidays for an hour's long sneak peek of what happens at the Zoo before general opening. See the animals slowly waking up and going about their own morning routine, whilst our team of zookeepers, staff and volunteers get the Zoo ready to welcome visitors. Plus, we’ll be bringing you right up-close to a different species for each of the early opening dates with additional activities and talks!
Find out the next early openings at London Zoo here and Whipsnade Zoo here.
An Evening with our EDGE Fellows
Tuesday 24 March, London Zoo
Join us for an exclusive drinks reception to meet our Latin America cohort of EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered) Fellows as they complete their two-year Fellowship. Hear about the remarkable projects these young conservationists are leading to preserve some of the world’s most unique species.
Make sure you don't miss out on your Patron events throughout our 200th anniversary year and secure your spot to get closer to wildlife than ever before.
Events at our Conservation Zoos
Select dates throughout the year
At London and Whipsnade Zoos, there’s always something to celebrate! From unique animal awareness days to seasonal festivities, every visit brings something special. As a Patron, you’ll even have the chance to receive an exclusive pin badge to mark certain events, adding an extra touch of excitement. We look forward to helping you create unforgettable memories with your family while celebrating the wonders of wildlife!
Explore upcoming events at London Zoo here and Whipsnade Zoo here.
Bicentenary Science and Conservation events
Select dates throughout the year
We host a wide variety of science and conservation events, both in-person and online, as we hope to offer you exciting opportunities to actively engage with our work. To celebrate our 200th anniversary we have a range of upcoming bicentenary talks for you to enjoy. Whether it’s deepening your understanding of wildlife through our science events or exploring a specific project – there is an event for you. Plus they are all free to attend!
You can find out the next Science and Conservation event here.
Festive Drinks Reception
Tuesday 16 December, 6pm
This special reception at London Zoo is our opportunity to thank you for your support throughout 2025 and reflect on the incredible impact we’ve achieved together for wildlife. You can enjoy an evening of festive cheer and conversation with fellow supporters as we look ahead to ZSL’s bicentenary year. Please note this event is for over 18s only.
Life at our Zoos: Behind the Scenes webinar
Wednesday 8 October 2025, from 2pm
During this exclusive online event, you’ll hear from ZSL experts as they share the latest updates from our two conservation zoos. You’ll enjoy behind the scenes insights into the lives of our incredible animals and find out more about how our work in the zoos connects to our work to protect wildlife around the world.
This is a chance to take a closer look at the work you help make possible – both within our zoos and our global conservation programmes. The event will also include Q&A session, giving you the opportunity to ask your questions directly to the team.
Whipsnade Awakes: A ZSL Patron Morning
Saturday 13 September 2025, from 8am
As the sun rises over Dunstable Downs, enjoy light refreshments and the chance to connect with fellow supporters before setting off on a guided walking tour through the Africa section of the zoo.
Watch as the zoo comes to life and our animals awaken - from majestic rhinos and graceful giraffes, to rare bongos and our Northern African lion pride, including our seven playful lion cubs. During this family friendly event, you'll have the opportunity to see the animals before the zoo opens to visitors and hear about ZSL's vital work to protect these remarkable species, both in our conservation zoos and around the world.