Is the festival suitable for children under 5 years old?

Yes, the festival is designed with toddlers and preschoolers in mind, offering age-appropriate activities and gentle animal encounters.

Are pets allowed at the event?

For the safety of all animals and guests, outside pets are not permitted. Service animals are welcome.

Can I purchase food and drinks onsite?

Yes, there are food vendors offering snacks and beverages, but bringing your own water bottle is recommended.

Is parking available near the event?

Parking is available onsite and nearby, but it can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Yes, tickets are recommended to be purchased in advance online to guarantee entry and avoid lines.

Are strollers allowed inside the festival?

Strollers are welcomed and recommended for families with young children to navigate the event comfortably.

Spring Tails Family Festival in Del Mar, California | Events | Zoo

Experience a joyful day at the Spring Tails Family Festival hosted by the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Del Mar, California. This enchanting event is tailor-made for families with toddlers and elementary-aged children, offering hands-on animal encounters that allow little ones to connect with nature up close. Beyond interactive wildlife experiences, kids can dive into themed crafts, enjoy whimsical face painting, and participate in fun-filled games designed to spark creativity and laughter. Dressing in your best spring attire adds a festive touch to the celebration, making it a wonderful opportunity for family photos and lasting memories. The festival beautifully combines education and entertainment, encouraging children to appreciate animals and the outdoors. Conveniently located near San Diego, it's a fantastic destination for local families or travelers seeking a gentle, animal-centered adventure in a picturesque Southern California setting.

About Helen Woodward Animal Center

Helen Woodward Animal Center in Del Mar, California, is a hands-on animal education and events facility that hosts camps, field trips, parties, and interactive animal encounters. The Center offers structured programs for all ages, including the DogSmart dog-handling lessons, Full Day Veterinarian Camp with suturing and CPR practice, and school-ready Spring Tails and Trail Adventure field trips that emphasize STEM and outdoor skills.

Birthday parties and family festivals combine private indoor spaces, themed playgrounds, animal interactions, crafts, face painting, and mini pumpkin patches to create memorable celebrations. Group-friendly experiences include customizable Interactive Animal Encounters and Crafting with Critters sessions that pair live animal ambassadors with guided art activities. Seasonal events such as Howl-O-Ween Harvest and the Howl-O-Ween Harvest Family Festival feature haunted-house explorations, hands-on STEM stations, and rotating animal presentations.

Programs mention expert guidance, age-appropriate instruction, and hands-on practice to build confidence and skills around animals. Many offerings are designed for schools, Scout troops, and families seeking educational enrichment, with options tailored to classroom goals or badge requirements. Activities focus on animal behavior, life cycles, veterinary skills, and responsible nature exploration. By combining practical instruction, live animal interaction, and customizable itineraries, Helen Woodward Animal Center supports engaging, educational experiences in Del Mar that cater to learners, families, groups, and event planners.

Reservations and program details are available through the Center's event and education pages, allowing groups to select durations, customize presentations, and plan age-appropriate activities that meet learning objectives and create hands-on memories for schools, scouts, and families alike regularly.