Adventure Collective
Wildlife & Family Adventures at Gatorama Hatching Festival - Tampa

Wildlife & Family Adventures at Gatorama Hatching Festival

Palmdaleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

All ages encouraged; no special fitness required

Overview

Discover the wonder of alligator hatching at Gatorama's vibrant festival. Get up-close, learn about conservation, and enjoy family-friendly wildlife fun in Florida!

Palmdale, Florida

Hatching Festival

All Ages • Includes General Admission • August 16th - September 2nd

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of Gatorama's Hatching Festival, where you can witness the miracle of baby alligators hatching! Join a guided group, don safety gloves, and participate in this unique event while learning about conservation efforts. Enjoy the park's attractions before and after your unforgettable hatching experience.

Duration

1 Hour

So You Want To Hatch A Baby Gator?

It’s Hatching Season here at Gatorama, and while the babies are in the incubators, we thought we’d give you a little information to help make your Festival Experience everything it can be.

We have been active research partners with the University of Florida for many years. This year, the results are in! As part of our mission to preserve the species continues, we are going to let Mother Nature take full control of The Hatching Festival this year, even down to the time of day.

Mother Nature is funny—she doesn’t like to be rushed and has yet to get a watch—so we will hatch no baby until it’s ready. Don’t worry, in all the years we have had the Hatching Festival, we’ve always been able to accommodate our guests. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the time printed on your hatch ticket.

When you check in, you’ll be given a ticket for your hatching group. This way, you can enjoy the park and listen for your group to be called. Okee reports that it’s an egg-cellent presentation by Gatorama’s own Allen Register.

Meanwhile, we will be checking on the babies to see who is ready to be hatched. We will distribute gloves (they are necessary for your safety and the safety of our babies) and direct you to a Hatching Station.

Once you’ve finished hatching and taking a few selfies, your guide will take the baby and place it in the ‘Nursery’. Your turn is now over. While we are busy sanitizing our stations, another group will be called to the barn and you will be free to check out all of the exciting things there are to do at Gatorama.

As Okee says, “The Early Bird Catches The Worm,” or is it Gator? When you’re done, try your hand at some of our Gatorventures. Either way, the fun isn’t over!

Policies

PLEASE NOTE: if your county or ours is under a Hurricane Warning we will offer you a store credit for your admission and any wildlife encounters you pre-purchased (valid until the end of the current calendar year.) By buying tickets, you are agreeing to this policy.

YOU MAY BE PHOTOGRAPHED during the Hatching Festival. If you do not wish for your photo to be taken, please advise us when you check-in for a special bracelet.

There is a $12.50 rescheduling fee per ticket.

By completing your purchase, you are agreeing to the above-listed policies.

Our small business supports every citizen’s right to liberty and the pursuit of happiness. With that right comes personal responsibility. Individuals must take responsibility for their health and safety. If you do not feel safe you have the right to not enter or to leave at that time.

Adventure Tips

Wear protective gear

Always wear gloves during the hatch and hold to protect yourself and the baby alligators.

Arrive early

Getting there early ensures you won’t miss the hatch and is less crowded.

Bring waterproof clothing

Waterproof gear keeps you comfortable while participating in wet or muddy areas.

Check the schedule

Review the event times beforehand to maximize your visit and participation.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Great blue heron
  • River otters

History

Gatorama has been operating since 1959, dedicated to local wildlife conservation and education.

Conservation

The park actively participates in alligator hatchling rehabilitation and habitat preservation efforts.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Tampa

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof gloves

Essential

Necessary for safely handling baby alligators during the hatch and hold.

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Essential

Protects you from sun exposure during outdoor activities.

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Ideal for walking around the park and viewing exhibits.

Camera or smartphone with camera

Capture memorable moments of the hatchling event.