The Mesker Park Zoo Advisory Board has approved early closure dates for the upcoming Booth Zoo event, set to take place in mid-October. This decision comes as the zoo transitions from its popular Wild Summer Lights program, which concludes on October 5. The Booth Zoo will run for two weekends, from October 17 to 19 and again from October 24 to 26.

To facilitate the event, the zoo will close its gates early on Fridays and Saturdays at 2 PM, allowing guests to exit by 3 PM. On Sundays, the zoo will close at 1 PM to prepare for the evening activities, which will run from 5 PM to 8 PM. The zoo plans to communicate these changes through various channels, including its website, phone messaging, and signage at the entrance, ensuring visitors are informed before entering.

During the meeting, the executive director noted that while staffing needs for cleaning and maintenance during the Booth Zoo event are typically lower than during the summer, the team will monitor the situation closely to maintain cleanliness.

In addition to the early closure discussion, the board reflected on recent attendance trends, noting a dip in visitor numbers during June and July, attributed to weather conditions and economic factors. However, August showed promising attendance, reminiscent of the zoo's peak periods, particularly following the opening of the Amazonia exhibit in 2008.

The board's proactive measures and community engagement strategies aim to enhance visitor experience and ensure the success of upcoming events, reinforcing the zoo's commitment to serving the Evansville community.