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Phillips Park Zoo celebrating 100 years

Aurora's Phillips Park Zoo celebrates its 100th anniversary Saturday, Aug. 29, with a free celebration for the public.

The event, from 1 to 5 p.m., includes workshops with zookeepers who will introduce visitors to the animals living at the zoo, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora.

Live-animal encounters are planned with experts from Save Our American Raptors, the Fox Valley Wildlife Center, Indian Prairie Animal Hospital and Incredible Bats. Entertainment includes comedic juggler The Truly Remarkable Loon, music from Dave Rudolf, and magic by Randy the Magician.

"The Phillips Park Zoo has been home to many exciting animals and even more wonderful memories over the past century," zoo manager Randy Johnson said.

"We are looking forward to celebrating with some very special animal guests and inspiring a whole new generation of animal lovers who will come to learn and care for the animal world for the next hundred years."

The celebration honors the opening of the zoo in 1915 when it originally housed exotic animals.

Since then, the mission of Philips Park Zoo has changed to bring people in contact with animals native to North America - from cougars, elks and wolves to alligators, eagles and otters.

Prairie Pro Photography and The Light of the Heart will be on hand for photos and activities. Several food vendors, from Dick's Mini Donuts to Pie Boss, will have treats for sale.

Phillips Park Zoo's 100th Anniversary Celebration is sponsored by the Phillips Park Zoociety, the Friends of Phillips Park, and the city of Aurora.

For information, contact Aurora's Customer Service at (630) 256-4636 or aurora-il.org.

If you go

What: Phillips Park Zoo 100th anniversary celebration

When: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29

Where: Phillips Park Zoo, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora

Cost: Free

Info: (630) 256-4636 or aurora-il.org

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