Know before you go

Please review this important information about this year's Lori J. Howell Fetal Family Reunion at the Philadelphia Zoo.

This event will be held RAIN OR SHINE!

Start & end time, event check-in

What time should I arrive?

Event check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. directly outside of the front gates of the Zoo. After you check in, you can head to the Impala Lawn, which will serve as our “home base” for the day. This is where you'll be able to pick up patient T-shirts, meal vouchers and parking passes.

We encourage you to arrive early because for the first hour of the day - from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. - the Zoo will be open just to us! You’ll get first choice of parking spots and be able to say good morning to the animals and explore the Zoo before the general public arrives and our formal program starts.

At 10 a.m., make your way back to the Impala Lawn for a short program followed by a group photo.

After 12 p.m. (noon) our check-in tables will move to the Impala Lawn. If you arrive after 12 p.m. let the Zoo staff know you’re with the Fetal Family Reunion. You can proceed to the Impala Lawn once through the gates. Please note, due to the large number of attendees, meal vouchers, t-shirts and parking passes may run out if you are arriving after the program.

What time does the event end?

Our official CHOP event will end at 1 p.m. Please note this means that after 1 p.m., you will not be able to obtain a parking pass or pre-loaded food cards and registration will be closed. However, you’re welcome to stay until 5 p.m., when the Zoo closes.

When can I see my favorite CFDT/CHOP staff members?

Many of our team members will be on site in the morning for the formal program only, so your best chance of catching them will be before the photo and immediately after on the Impala Lawn.

Do I need to print anything in advance?

No. When you arrive at the Zoo entrance, please be prepared to give us the last name you registered with. That is how we’ll check you in!

When you check in, you’ll receive your entrance tickets and will need to go through Zoo security. Strollers and wheelchairs will need to go through metal detectors. We ask for your patience as the Zoo staff will be working hard to ensure safety for all.

Formal program and group photo

Will there be a formal event program and group photo?

Yes! The program will begin promptly at 10 a.m. on the Impala Lawn, which will also serve as our “home base” for the day. We’d love for you to be included in the group photo, which will be around 10:15 a.m., following the program. Check out our event map via the QR code on the program from your arrival packet to familiarize yourself with the layout of the day’s events.

Will there be T-shirts?

Yes, T-shirts for CHOP patients will be available once you’re checked in! Once you’re checked in, proceed to the Impala Lawn.

Due to the overwhelming response and attendance expected for this event, we’ll do our best to make sure every patient gets a T-shirt. We appreciate your understanding!

Parking & directions

When do I get my parking pass?

In the packet you receive at check in you’ll see a pink ticket. This ticket can be exchanged on the Impala Lawn next to the T-shirts for one parking pass. You do not need a pass to enter a garage/lot. You will give the pass to the parking attendant when you leave.

Where should I park?

You will be directed to park in the Tiger Lot, accessible from 34th Street. Once the lot is full, parking will also be available at the Zoo Garage at 35th & Girard Ave. (entrance at 3500 W. Girard Ave.).

Please note that parking is limited! We recommend arriving early and carpooling if you can.

Handicapped accessible parking spots and spaces for vans are available in both the Tiger Lot and the Parking Garage.

Please visit the Zoo’s website for directions and additional information.

Food & drinks

Where do I get my pre-loaded food cards and how do I use it?

In the packet you receive at check in you’ll see a blue ticket - go to the Impala Lawn, where you will exchange the ticket for a $5 pre-loaded food card (up to 10 people in a group). These cards can be used at all Zoo concessions except for the Tiger Terrace throughout the day. The cards are valid for use on the day of the event and good to use for the remainder of the year. 

Can I bring outside food/drink?

Yes. You are welcome to bring your own lunch, snacks or any special foods your child or family may require based on dietary restrictions, you can bring those in small bags or soft coolers. Breastmilk is also permitted. Please don’t bring large hard-sided coolers, glass or alcoholic beverages.

Miscellaneous

Where can I go if I need some privacy or quiet?

The Peacock Pavillion is reserved for us all day. This location houses the breastfeeding area and tables/chairs. It is an indoor space with fans. Check out our event map to familiarize yourself with quiet areas throughout the zoo, if needed.

What do I do if I have a problem?

If you have an emergency, the best thing to do would be to find a Zoo staff member and ask for help. If you have any questions regarding the CHOP event (food, parking, T-shirts, etc.), the Impala Lawn will be our home base until 1 p.m.

Visit the Zoo website to plan your visit, and check out amenities like stroller or wheelchair rentals.