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Up Close & Wild 2022

Family Zoo Day
For school-age students (birth to 22) with disabilities and their family members

Sunday, Sept. 25th 11:00am – 2:00pm

The Arc Tennessee is hosting a family day to Get Up Close & Wild at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere on Sunday, September 25th! This event is intended for school-age students (birth to 22 years) with disabilities and their family members. This fun-filled day will provide full day admission to the zoo with catered lunch, face painting, animal encounter, free family photo sessions and time to explore resources from 11am- 2pm.

Purchase Tickets
Ticket Info

Purchase your tickets here!

Tickets for general admission to this event are open to the public. Tickets are $20 each, but if you already have a Nashville Zoo membership, you’ll be reimbursed $10! Simply bring your membership card with you and see a staff person for more details. 

For more details, see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below.

Purchase Tickets
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

View more event details here!

What if I already have a zoo membership?

GREAT! If you already have a zoo membership, be sure to bring your membership card to the event! Once we record your membership number, The Arc Tennessee will refund $10!

What’s on the lunch menu?

Lunch will be a Classic American buffet featuring: Angus beef hamburgers (with traditional topping options including lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions, dill pickles), ballpark hotdogs, mixed green salad with assorted dressings, baked beans, potato chips and assorted cookies. 

What time does lunch & resource fair start?

Lunch and resource fair is a “come and go” as you please, during the hours of 11am-2pm. Anyone who is registered has full day admission to the zoo, but the hours for lunch, resources, animal encounter, face painting and family photo sessions will take place 11am-2pm.

Is this a private event just for families of students with disabilities?

This event, resources and engagement opportunities are specifically geared toward students with intellectual and developmental disabilities from birth through 22 years of age. Family members, support professionals, friends and advocates are all welcome! 

Can individuals with restricted diets bring their own food?

Yes! If you have a special dietary need, you are encouraged to bring your own food to the event. When you register, please make a note that you’ll be bringing your own food. This helps us with our headcount for lunch. 

Can you share more about the resource fair?

Resources for families will be set up around the pavilion where lunch will be served, from 11-2pm.  Here’s a list of the featured resources:

Family Engagement in Special Education

Tennessee Center for Decision-Making Support

Tennessee Respite Coalition

PeerKnect

 

 

When is the animal encounter happening?

The zookeepers will be bringing out a special animal guest to our event pavilion at 11:30am!