Belfast Zoo turns 90 with Easter family fun
A SERIES of fun events are planned this week to mark Belfast Zoo’s 90th birthday.
The zoo reaches the landmark tomorrow and the celebrations will run from Easter Sunday through to Tuesday.
There will be free family fun and a range of activities, along with the chance to win prizes such as zoo memberships, animal adoptions, family passes and souvenirs.
The zoo opened in March 1934 and was home to tigers, polar bears, baboons, kangaroos, camels, brown bears and leopards.
Today, the zoo remains on the scenic Cavehill site and is home to over 110 species of animals, many of which are endangered or extinct in the wild.
Julie Bryans, commercial support officer at Belfast Zoo, said she is excited to celebrate the milestone.
“At 90 years old, we’re one of Northern Ireland’s oldest visitor attractions, and we’re delighted to be hosting an event where everyone can come together to enjoy a family day out and share their memories of Belfast Zoo,” she said.
“Sunday, March 31, is the first day of the zoo’s summer opening hours, 10am to 6pm, so visitors can enjoy a longer stay at the zoo.
“They can drop by the history hub and chat to our education team who will be sharing interesting facts about the zoo, and there will be a display of pictures of the zoo throughout the years, the little ones can dance along to the bubble bike and get an animal themed glitter tattoo.”
This year also marks 40 years of education at Belfast Zoo.
John Fisher, the zoo’s education officer, said: “This milestone year, we want to celebrate both the past and the future.
“The role of the zoo has changed significantly over the years, and zoos are now seen as an essential place where many species which are under threat can be preserved and maintained.
“We are dedicated to continuing our conservation efforts both locally and globally to protect wildlife that is increasingly under threat.”
He said the zoo remained “a fantastic visitor attraction”.