Wildest Dreams Returns to Assiniboine Park Zoo

On June 9, the Assiniboine Park Conservancy (APC) will welcome over 1,600 very special guests to the seventh annual Wildest Dreams event at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. This year, APC has partnered with 22 community organizations to provide a once-in-a-lifetime Zoo experience for children and families facing health and or socio-economic challenges.

“This event is very near and dear to our hearts here at the Assiniboine Park Conservancy,” said Laura Cabak, Director of Public Relations & Communications, Assiniboine Park Conservancy. “It is one of several ways we give back to the community we serve and a truly magical evening.”

From the moment they walk through the doors, in addition to enjoying complimentary access to the entire Zoo, Wildest Dreams guests will be treated to a memorable array of special activities, experiences and entertainment. There will be Zoo chats, a dance party, craft zone, ambassador animals, and more!

IRCOM, Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba, is one of our new partner organizations at Wildest Dreams this year.

“Our newcomer families are excited to attend the Wildest Dreams event,” said Shereen Denetto, Executive Director at IRCOM. “Participating is one way to get to know their new home and feel welcome, while learning about the amazing animals at the Zoo.”

Unfortunately, as a result of COVID-19 public health restrictions, the Conservancy wasn’t able to host the popular event in 2020 and 2021, making the return of this year’s festivities extra special.

“We are excited to be a partner with the Assiniboine Park Conservancy and offer this no cost event to children and youth living with disabilities,” said Jaylene Irwin, Supervisor of Recreation and Leisure, at Manitoba Possible. “After a two-year hiatus families are excited to have the opportunity to attend such a special event.”

For some organizations, like Rossbrook House, the Wildest Dreams event has become an annual tradition.

“Wildest Dreams has turned into one of our biggest events, said Sheila Chippastance, Volunteer Coordinator at Rossbrook House. “It is one of our few events that includes the whole family. It creates a bond between us and the families that attend the event…just a magical evening.”

Assiniboine Park Conservancy is proud to partner with such wonderful community organizations and is grateful for the contributions from several local businesses who provide financial and in-kind support to make Wildest Dreams possible.