Tiger Fun Day returns in July at Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens in Hilo

Hawai‘i County Department of Parks and Recreation and Friends of the Pana‘ewa Zoo once again invite the community to celebrate the birthdays of beloved Bengal tigers Tzatziki and Sriracha.

Tiger Fun Day 2026 is scheduled 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 11 at Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens in Hilo.

The annual event includes free admission to the zoo for those who attend. It will include games, activities, face painting, food vendors, education opportunities and a birthday party for the tigers, during which they will receive special treats.

Tiger Fun Day also is a fundraiser for nonprofit Friends of the Pana‘ewa Zoo, which supports the zoo and its animals.

“We are so excited to invite the community out to celebrate the tigers’ 11th birthday,” said Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens Administrator Mindy Runnells in a county announcement about the upcoming event. “Tiger Fun Day is a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy a day of discovery and activities and learn more about our incredible animals.”

Additional details

• Sales of zoo passports begin at 9:30 a.m. on Tiger Fun Day. Participants can earn their Junior Zookeeper badge as they discover, learn and have their passport stamped at various stations at the zoo.
• The birthday party for Tzatziki and Sriracha is at 10:30 a.m.
• Shuttle service will be available from the parking lot at Pana‘ewa Equestrian Center.

Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens — located in a lush rain forest environment — is home to 82 species and nearly 300 animals. The zoo also features special amenities such as a playground, pavilions, a gift shop and more.