All active, veteran, and retired military and their families are invited to enjoy a free day of fun at the Abilene Zoo on Saturday, May 27, as part of Zoolute 2023. The Abilene Zoo board and officials created this special day to celebrate all branches of the United States Military.

Last year's Abilene Zoolute was canceled due to the Mesquite Heat Fire. However, this year the Abilene Zoo is full steam ahead with Zoolute, a salute to the men and women who gave their all for the freedoms we enjoy every day. All military and their families will be honored and admitted free into the zoo for this event.

Abilene's Zoolute Opening Ceremonies Begin Saturday Morning at 9:00 AM

Organized with the help of several local businesses from around West Texas, Dyess Air Force Base leaders, Honor Guard, and local dignitaries will be present for the national anthem and presentation of colors at 11 a.m. Zookeeper chats and up-close animal encounters will be going on throughout the day. H-E-B will provide free lunch and snacks to all attendees starting at 11:30 am.

Schedule of Events:
● 9:00 am - Zoo opens
● 11:00 am - Ceremony featuring Dyess AFB Honor Guard at the Red Oak Plaza
● 11:15 am - Animal Ambassador appearance at the Red Oak Plaza
● 11:30 am - Lunch served by H-E-B at the Lakeside Pavilion
● 12:00 pm - Band Performance at the Red Oak Plaza
● 1:00 pm - Flamingo Keeper Chat
● 2:00 pm - Animal Ambassador appearance at the Red Oak Plaza
● 3:00 pm - Lemur Keeper Chat
● 4:00 pm - Gates close
Source: AbileneZoo.org

Be sure to stop by and visit Sparky and Leu, the Abilene Zoo's two new Bald Eagles.

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