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Lions Day at the Detroit Zoo
September 20, 2026 | 12 -4 p.m.
Celebrate football season with Roary, Detroit Lions Cheerleaders, real lions and a chance to win a family Zoo membership. Wear your gear!
A Roaring Good Time
Ready for a legendary Sunday in metro Detroit? We’re calling all Detroit Lions fans (and animal lovers) to join us for the second annual Lions Day at the Detroit Zoo, a one-day event that brings together the state’s favorite football team and one of its most iconic destinations.
This is your chance to bring the whole pride — grandparents, kiddos, jersey-wearing toddlers and die-hard fans alike — and celebrate the spirit of Detroit with the power of wildlife.
Plan My Visit
What to Expect
- Appearances from the Detroit Lions Cheerleaders
- An appearance from the Honolulu Boom Drumline
- A meet-and-greet with a Detroit Lions Legend
- Appearances by Roary the mascot
- Special lions-themed education stations
- Zookeeper chats
- Entry into a family membership giveaway
- A chance to win a raffle prize of signed Lions memorabilia
- 10% off select retail items for anyone wearing Lions gear
- Honolulu blue-berry boba with silver shimmer at Griffin Claw Gather Beer Garden (Available for purchase)
Activation Schedule:
- Noon-12:15 p.m. – Zookeeper chat
Location: Lion habitat - Noon-1:30 p.m. – Detroit Lions Cheerleaders
Location: In front of Ron Kagan Wildlife Interpretive Gallery - Noon-4 p.m. – Education Stations
Location: Lion habitat - Noon-4 p.m. — Membership Giveaway
Location: Lion habitat - 12:30-1:30 p.m. – Honolulu Boom Drumline
Location: In front of Ron Kagan Wildlife Interpretive Gallery - 1-2 p.m. – Meet and Greet with a Lions Legend
Location: Renaissance Circle - 1:30-2:30 p.m. – Roary the mascot
Location: Ford Education Center Courtyard
Want to Win a Detroit Zoo Membership?
Anyone wearing Detroit Lions apparel will be entered into a drawing for a free Detroit Zoo family membership. Stop by the table near the lion habitat to participate.
Capture the Moment
Don’t forget to snap photos with Roary, the Detroit Lions Cheerleaders and the real lions of the Zoo. Tag your experience on social media with #LionsDayAtTheDetroitZoo
Plan My Visit