National Geographic Kids Entertainment is partnering with 5 U.S. and Canadian zoos for the 2nd North American World Animal Day promotion which aims to introduce kids to the natural world, utilizing animal content from National Geographic Kids magazine and popular characters from two of NGKE’s animated preschool properties, “Mama Mirabelle’s Home Movies” and “Toot & Puddle.”

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Movies for Mommies/Toons for Toddlers, Zoo Pals and Sandylion Stickers are marketing partners for this year’s events.

The promotion, geared toward children ages 2-12 and their caregivers, will take place throughout October and will be directed toward World Animal Day on Sunday, Oct. 4. Events will include: a hands-on workshop with National Geographic photographers (select cities); animal encounters; arts and crafts; book readings; special screenings of “Mama Mirabelle’s Home Movies” and “Toot & Puddle”; a parade and a cupcake ceremony.

Participating zoos are:
   Oct. 3: Roger Williams Park Zoo (Providence, R.I.), with photographer
   Darlyne Murawski
   Oct. 3: Valley Zoo (Edmonton, Alberta), with photographer Ian Nichols
   Oct. 3-4: Calgary Zoo (zoo staff only)
   Oct 4 Toronto Zoo, with photographer Ian Nichols
   Oct. 25-26: Phoenix Zoo (zoo staff only)

Go out and have some fun if you live in one of these cities!