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Hemker Park and Zoo

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Events

At Hemker Park & Zoo, we’re as passionate about experiences as we are about animals. Our mission is to help “educate the young and old” by providing people with fun and fascinating “up close” animal encounters. See all of our upcoming events for our season below.

Brew At The Zoo

Thursday, June18th, 2026 – 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm Come join in the fun at Brew At The zoo! Take part in a fantastic evening of beer, wine and spritz sampling. During the event, listen to live music and shop our silent auction. We will also have food available for sale….

Summer Party

Friday, July 10th, 2026– 10:00am Get your advanced tickets to reserve your spot at our Summer Party, listen to our hourly penguin keeper talks about our penguins! As they like it warm not cold!!! The annual Summer Party is a popular summer celebration geared toward…

Fall Zoo Fest

Saturday, September 12th, 2026– 10:00am Join the harvest fun. Held in early September each year, the Fall Zoo Fest is a special event at Hemker Park & Zoo to celebrate harvest season. Discounted admission $16.00 + tax/person, Local Vendors, Apples from…

Zootoberfest

Hemker Park & Zoo along with the Guardians of Conservation is excited to announce a brand-new way to celebrate October. Zootoberfest will bring some German flair to central Minnesota. It will take place on Saturday, September 26th, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sample German beer while enjoying a fall afternoon at Hemker Park & Zoo.  Must be 21 to sample German Beer. This event is included in regular zoo admission.

Boo at the Zoo: October 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th, 2026

Calling all Ghouls and Goblins! Trick or Treat around Hemker Park & Zoo from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm! Dress up in your Halloween Costume and watch the animals get their favorite Halloween Treats too. Discounted Admission $16.00/person +tax for anyone 2 years old and up (anyone 23 months and younger is free)…

Santa Days 2026

Ho, ho, ho! Santa is making a special stop at Hemker Park & Zoo on November 21st, 27th & 28th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM! Enjoy visiting with Santa and a few of his animal friends! Shop our main gift shop for the perfect holiday gifts, pick up your season member passes, and explore our Sponsor an Animal boxes and more. Be sure to bring your camera to capture a memorable photo with Santa and his Highland helpers!

For the Love of Rhino Gala, Saturday, February 7th, 2026

The Guardians of Conservation cordially invite you to the 5th Annual “For the Love of Rhino” Gala, a Masquerade Adventure. This exciting and meaningful event will take place on Saturday, February 7th, 2026, at the Coyote Moon Grille in St. Cloud.

 

A Legacy of Love

Founded by Mark & Joan Hemker, the zoo has become a labor of love to honor Mark’s legacy since his passing 2006.