Is the Read-a-Thon included with zoo admission?

Yes. The Summer Read-a-Thon programming is included with general admission or valid Lehigh Valley Zoo membership.

What are the program times?

Core story and education programs occur roughly 10:30-11:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m. (educational program), and 1:00-2:00 p.m.; general admission is 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Are the storytimes appropriate for all ages?

Programs are family-friendly and geared toward young children—toddlers through early elementary benefit most—but all ages are welcome.

Will there be animal encounters during programs?

Educational demonstrations are part of amphitheater programming; after-hours animal encounters may be offered separately—check the booking link for specifics.

Is the amphitheater indoor or outdoor?

The Wonders of Wildlife Amphitheater is an open-air venue set among trees and grass, so dress for the weather.

Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?

The zoo has mostly paved routes and stroller-friendly paths; guests with specific accessibility needs should contact Lehigh Valley Zoo ahead of their visit to confirm accommodations.

Summer Read-a-Thon at Lehigh Valley Zoo: Family Fun, Animal Encounters, and Storytime (June 10) | Eco Tour | Events

At the Lehigh Valley Zoo in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, the Summer Read-a-Thon on June 10 turns the park’s pathways and the Wonders of Wildlife Amphitheater into a kid-centered celebration of reading, animals, and conservation. Located on the edge of Trexler Nature Preserve, the zoo’s modest footprint focuses on native and non-native species, interactive exhibits, and accessible outdoor learning—making it an ideal stop for families exploring the Lehigh Valley.

The day begins with a free book giveaway from Pinebrook Family Answers and storytime with a Miss Rachel impersonator from 10:30-11:30 a.m., followed by an Educational Program in the Wonders of Wildlife Amphitheater at noon. From 1-2 p.m. Miss Stacy leads singing and stories; general admission runs 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The schedule frames a three-hour core of structured offerings inside longer open-hours access, so families can pair formal programs with self-guided animal viewing and after-hours encounters if available. Programs emphasize animal behavior, habitat connections, and conservation messages delivered at a child-friendly pace.

Lehigh Valley Zoo operates as a nonprofit; ticket revenue supports local conservation and animal care. That mission shapes the visitor experience: enclosures and interpretive signage aim to teach as much as entertain. The amphitheater itself is a notable feature—an intimate, low-slung stage set among grass and trees where educators can bring animals for close-up demonstrations without noisy crowds. Nearby exhibits showcase species that adapt to temperate eastern landscapes, and the zoo’s proximity to Trexler Preserve adds a meaningful contrast between curated habitats and regional natural areas.

For visiting families this event offers a compact, low-stress way to combine literacy and wildlife. It’s a standout because it centers kids in outdoor learning while reinforcing conservation funding through admission. Accessibility tends to be stroller- and family-friendly, but guests should expect typical zoo surfaces: paved paths, boardwalks, and some gravel near natural exhibits.

Practical tips: arrive early to pick up the free book and secure amphitheater seating, bring water and sun protection for the open-air programs, and check the zoo’s website or the provided booking link for any last-minute schedule updates. Membership holders enter under their usual benefits. Whether you’re local or passing through the Lehigh Valley, the Read-a-Thon provides a short, spirited blend of storytime, music, and up-close learning that leaves kids engaged and supports a small regional zoo doing hands-on conservation work.

Plan to allow ninety minutes to two hours for the Read-a-Thon core programs plus extra time to stroll exhibits; the zoo’s compact layout makes it easy to move between amphitheater and animal areas with young children. Pack a light blanket or small folding chair for extra comfort on the amphitheater lawn. After the event, consider a short drive to Trexler Nature Preserve for a brief, quiet hike with family members.

About Lehigh Valley Zoo

Lehigh Valley Zoo, located in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, operates as a regional zoological attraction focused on animal encounters, conservation education, and family events. The Zoo offers a range of hands-on experiences including Penguin Encounter, Giraffe Encounter, Otter Encounter, and a West African Crowned Crane Encounter, plus seasonal events such as Breakfast with the Beasts, Zoostock, and the Conservation Gala. Membership gift certificates and tokens provide flexible ways to support the Zoo and enhance visits.

Experienced zookeepers lead guided programs and supervised encounters that allow visitors to feed, observe, and learn about animal behavior and conservation needs. Several offerings explicitly highlight conservation—Penguin Encounter educates about endangered African Penguins, and the Conservation Gala raises funds to protect wildlife and habitats. Event dates and times are publicly announced for specific programs, including scheduled dates for Breakfast with the Beasts and Zoostock.

The Zoo is part of community-focused programming in the Lehigh Valley region, hosting family-friendly activities and educational opportunities for all ages. Safety protocols and staff supervision guide interactive encounters to ensure animal welfare and guest safety. Tickets, membership certificates, and tokens are available for purchase and provide structured access to experiences, early entry events, and exclusive activities.

Lehigh Valley Zoo emphasizes accessible wildlife education, memorable up-close interactions, and ongoing conservation support. Visitors can plan visits around scheduled encounters, special events, and membership benefits while contributing to animal care and regional conservation initiatives.

The Zoo welcomes schools, families, and individual guests seeking educational outings, volunteer opportunities, and meaningful ways to engage with wildlife today.