Norristown, PA -- (SBWire) -- 07/08/2015 --When looking for things to do near Philadelphia, the Elmwood Park Zoo is proud to announce a complete lineup of family-friendly events through the month of July. With the opening of the Birds of Paradise exhibit, adults and children alike can hand-feed tropical sun conures and parakeets every day that the weather cooperates. With giraffe feeding and bison feeding exhibits through July, individuals have the opportunity to come face-to-face with some of the zoo's most popular creatures.

During the weekend of July 25, take part in activities both Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26. The Elmwood Park Zoo is bringing Christmas to July with Santa Clause making an appearance. On July 25, bring the kids and take pictures with Santa from 12 pm until 1 pm while taking advantage of 50% off all merchandise at the Nature Shop. Plus, all in attendance will receive $5 off their ticket for Brunch with Santa in December.

After taking pictures with Santa, stop by the zoo on July 26 to meet the Temple University football team. The Owls and their mascot, Hooter, will be greeting guests from 12:30 until 2 pm. Take a picture with standout junior RB Jahad Thomas, team captain Kyle Friend, and more. Afterward, the Phillie Phanatic will be on hand to greet guests until 3 pm. For unique and exciting things to in the Philadelphia area, check out the variety of activities that is offered at the zoo by visiting the website.

To help support the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the LundyLaw Library Express program, the Elmwood Park Zoo has placed a donation bin in the Nature Shop for members and guests of the zoo to donate age-appropriate books for patients. When volunteers from LundyLaw bring the books to the hospital, patients choose a book they'd like to keep. The zoo is proud to support the program and encourages all guests to make a donation.

About Elmwood Park Zoo
Located in Norristown, PA, the Elmwood Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Pennsylvania and is a premiere destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo features over 100 animals, primarily native to North, Central and South America. Elmwood Park Zoo offers guests both unique wildlife encounters as well as one-of-a-kind entertainment opportunities. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is owned and operated by the Norristown Zoological Society, a non-profit organization.

For more information about upcoming Zoo events, visit http://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/