Go Wild This Holiday Season with Gifts from Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo That Give Back

BRIDGEPORT, CT – November 20, 2024 – Unleash the spirit of giving with a twist of wildlife! Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo announces the launch of wild holiday gifts with one-of-a-kind options sure to delight recipients while supporting the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, and exceptional guest experiences. From the “Holiday Silent Auction” to exclusive "Animal Adoption Boxes,” the Zoo has curated a range of gifts guaranteed to bring joy to humans and animals alike. Here is what’s roaring onto the gift scene this holiday season.

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Online Auction Featuring Holiday Baskets
Offering a festive array of hand-crafted holiday baskets and unique items perfect for gift-giving and seasonal celebrations. From toys for the little ones to essentials for hosting holiday gatherings, the auction features a curated selection of baskets sure to bring joy. Every bid helps support the Zoo’s mission.

• Auction Opens: Thursday, November 21, 8:00 am
• Auction Closes: Friday, December 13, 8:00 pm
• Auction online at https://e.givesmart.com/events/FE6/

Winners can collect their items from the Zoo’s Administration Building during the following times:

• Pick-Up Dates: Monday, December 16 – Monday, December 23 | Hours: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Items cannot be shipped and must be picked up in person.​

Animal Adoption Boxes: Gifts with a Conservation Roar
Perfect for animal lovers in your life, these adoption boxes allow you to “adopt” one of seven iconic Zoo residents, including the Red Panda, Two-Toed Sloth, North American River Otter, Giant Anteater and Spider Monkey. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this gift offers a wild way to support conservation. Each box includes: a stuffed plush animal, color-it-yourself adoption box with puzzles on the box and crayons, plus a certificate of adoption to make it official.
New & Exclusive for the Holidays! Zoo Mini’s Adoption Box: Triple the Fun
Just in time for the holidays, this box features:

• Three mini plush animals! (1) Mini Wolf Plush (1) Mini Otter Plush (1) Mini Sloth Plush
• Certificate of adoption, animal fact card, bookmark, and sticker.
• A four-pack of crayons for endless coloring fun!

2025 Zoo Calendars: A Year of Wildlife Awaits
Start 2025 on the wild side with a zoo calendar featuring photographs of some of your favorite zoo animals. At just $25 (shipping included), this is a gift that keeps giving all year long.
Beardsley Brew: Buy a Brew & Support the Zoo!
Raise a glass to conservation with the Zoo’s limited-edition beer, "Beardsley Brew," created by Foolproof Brewery in Bridgeport. Four packs are $20 with 100% of the proceeds going to the Zoo’s education programs.  Only available for pick up at Foolproof Brewery, 800 Union Ave, Bridgeport, CT while supplies last or until the end of the year.
The Gift of Membership: A Year-Long Adventure
Give the ultimate gift of a Zoo Membership, providing unlimited access to the Zoo all year long. Perfect for families or animal enthusiasts, this is a gift that keeps giving with every visit. Purchase memberships directly or surprise loved ones with a gift card for future use!
Zoo Admission Passes: A Day to Remember
Treat someone to a day of fun and discovery at the Zoo. Admission passes make a thoughtful gift that offers time to explore the Zoo’s incredible wildlife and habitats with family and friends.
Holiday shopping with Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is more than gift giving— purchases contribute to the Zoo’s ongoing efforts in wildlife conservation and education. Plus, your thoughtful purchase helps ensure the animals thrive and the Zoo continues to educate and inspire future generations. Visit beardsleyzoo.org/gift-guide for online shopping.
Make this holiday season paws-itively unforgettable! For more information about zoo gifts and visiting hours and visit beardsleyzoo.org.