Please take a minute and review this important information about this year’s Chronic Lung Disease 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 will open at 9:30 a.m. directly outside of the front gates of the Philadelphia Zoo for any family wanting to enjoy the Zoo before the reunion begins.

The reunion event will begin at 11:00 a.m. under the Gala tent on the Impala Lawn. 

At 11:30 a.m., we will gather under the tent for a group photo before the reunion program begins.

After 12 p.m. (noon) our check-in tables will move to the Gala tent at the Impala Lawn. If you arrive after 12 p.m. let the Zoo staff know you’re with the Chronic Lung Disease Family Reunion. You can proceed to the Impala Lawn once through the gates. Check-in and T-shirt distribution will end by 2 p.m.

What time does the event end?

Our official CHOP event will end at 3 p.m. Please note this means that after 2 p.m., you will not be able to obtain parking vouchers, and T-shirt distribution will be closed. However, you’re welcome to stay until 5:30 p.m., when the Zoo closes.

Do I need to print my ticket?

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 get your Zoo entrance tickets, zoo passport and parking pass.

Do I need a separate ticket for Zoo admission?

You’ll receive your Zoo entrance ticket when you check in on the day of the event.

Formal program and group photo

Will there be a formal event program and group photo?

Yes! The program will begin promptly at 11:00 a.m. under the Gala tent 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 promptly at 11:30 a.m., followed by the reunion activities.

Will there be T-shirts?

Yes, T-shirts will be given to our CLD program graduates. These will be available once you’re checked in!  

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

Parking & directions

When do I get my parking voucher?

One parking voucher will be provided to each group at check-in. You do not need a voucher to enter a garage/lot. You will give the voucher to the parking attendant when you leave.

Where should I park?

The Tiger Lot, accessible from 34th Street is closest to the main entrance. If the lot is full, parking will also be available at the Zoo Garage at 35th & Girard Ave. (entrance at 3500 W. Girard Ave.).

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.

Are there strollers or wheelchairs available?

Yes, stroller and wheelchair rentals are available on a first-come, first-serve basis during the day. Check out the Zoo’s Accessibility & Amenities page for more information. 

Food & drinks

A buffet lunch will be served in the Gala tent on the Impala Lawn from Noon to 1 p.m. Beverages, snacks and desserts will be available throughout the event. 

Can I bring outside food/drink?

Yes. If you wish 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, and no alcoholic beverages. Water fountains are available throughout the Zoo. See locations on our Zoo Map. 

The Zoo is unable to provide refrigeration of any kind for any items that may need to be kept cool. We advise that if you require certain items (food or medicine) to be kept chilled, you may bring in a cooler with you. 

Miscellaneous

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 Gala tent on the Impala Lawn will be our home base until 3 p.m. Any CHOP staff in bright pink t-shirts will also be happy to answer any questions.