Calgary 
Listen up, animal lovers and garden enthusiasts, because we’ve got some exciting news for you!
This summer, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is hosting a special garden experience called WildScapes, featuring larger-than-life animal topiaries that are sure to leave you in awe.
According to Calgary Zoo, these living sculptures — from a massive 24-foot snake to a towering 21-foot giraffe — are made entirely from colourful flowers, succulents, and other materials. You can take in these beautiful works of art from human-sized to colossal-sized, making for the perfect family day out and an Instagram-worthy backdrop for photos from June 17th to mid-September 2023. The experience is included in zoo admission.
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But that’s not all. To celebrate WildScapes, the zoo is also hosting a range of bespoke events, including a Mad Hatter Garden Party for adults, a Sustainable Seafood Boil for the whole family, WildScapes Gardener’s Tours for the green thumbs out there, and a High Tea at the Zoo, which is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
The Mad Hatter Garden Party on June 18 is the perfect Alice in Wonderland-inspired soiree for the adults looking for a whimsical evening out. Indulge in creatively curated Wonderland-themed food stations and sip on unique concoctions served by local cocktail and drink vendors. The event will be held in the Dorothy Harvie Gardens, and guests are encouraged to dress in their best Mad Hatter, Alice, or Queen of Hearts inspired attire.
The Sustainable Seafood Boil (family-friendly) is on July 23, where you can get your ‘claws’ on some seriously delicious seafood. Enjoy live music, and activities, and learn all about conservation education and sustainable seafood choices. Your ticket includes admission to the zoo, so you can explore the grounds, visit your favourite animals, and take in the beautiful gardens.
For all you green thumbs out there, WildScapes Gardener’s Tours (18+) are a must. Discover the secrets of successful gardening in Calgary’s unique climate zones during an exciting one-hour journey through the Dorothy Harvie Gardens with experienced horticulture staff. Join us for multiple tours because each week, we will feature a new theme to expand your horticultural knowledge. But hurry, these tours are limited to 20 people, so secure your spot now!
And for those with a sweet tooth, there will be High Tea at the Zoo (family-friendly). Indulge in delicious treats like scones, finger sandwiches, and mouthwatering snacks, while sipping on a selection of tasty loose-leaf tea. You can experience it all in the beautiful ENMAX Conservatory, with views of the gardens and flowers. There’s even outdoor seating, so you can enjoy some fresh air and warm sunshine. This event will take place on various dates from July to August, so make sure to reserve your table online today!
And finally, if you’re looking for an evening of elegance, Garden Noir (18+) is the event for you. Hosted in the ENMAX Conservatory, Garden Noir promises to be an experience like no other. The gardens will be draped in deep hues of noir, and you’ll be treated to decadent delights and creative elixirs. And when it comes to drinks, our whiskey vendors will leave you wanting more. Garden Noir is happening on September 15th.
To secure your spot for any of the WildScapes events, head to the Calgary Zoo website and book your tickets now. And remember, this unique garden experience can’t be found anywhere else in Western Canada (this summer, at least!), so make sure to add it to your summer bucket list!
