Events

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Our annual Earth Day Art Contest has started! Submit art of your favorite Yellowstone Ecosystem animal by Earth Day weekend, April 23rd. Include a way to help wildlife, your name, and contact information for a chance to win! Voting will take place in the Education Building throughout April and May. Winners will be announced May 31st!

We are partnering with the Red Lodge Dark Skies group once again for our Spring Solstice Night Tour and Stargazing Event. Come join for a Night Tour of our facility starting at 7:15pm to see what our animals are up to at night, learn about nocturnal behaviors, and the effects of light pollution. This will be followed by a star gazing session, led by the Dark Skies Group, meet our vulture enclosure, 8:30pm - 9:30 pm. Event pricing and discounts for members.

Spring and summer are a great time to enjoy the Sanctuary and watch the animals at play in the warm sun! It’s also a great time for Tours and Animal Encounters. During this time of year, we recommend coming in the morning when the animals are most active! Please note the Sanctuary will be delaying the opening until April 7 due to a massive spring snow storm. Pictures on social media. April : Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday May: Every day except Tuesday, Keeper Talks: 11 am and 2 pm, Friday-Sunday Hours: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, last admission is at 3:30 pm!

Come participate in our Earth Day Speaker Series as local organizations and scientists share the latest wildlife research and conservation efforts in our area and ways to get involved. Speakers include: Marian Kirst - Montana Moth Project Nora Goldhammer: Pollinators: How supporting pollinator with native plants can have a positive impact on the overall pollinator populations of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Tom Kohley: Trails & Community Regular admission to attend.

Each year we celebrate Earth Day with several other organizations in Red Lodge. You can volunteer at a Parks Clean Up in the morning, then head over for fun and education with several local organizations in the afternoon.

Join the YWS and Beartooth Gallery for a remarkable evening of art, light hors d'oeuvres, and wine celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary. You won't want to miss this event recognizing those who love animals and the Sanctuary. There is no cost for this event, yet donations to the 40th Anniversary campaign are appreciated. The gallery will donate a small portion of any sales during the event. Please register to RSVP for this event. 

Join us in celebrating World Migratory Bird Day at ZooMontana! The ZooMontana Education team/volunteers will lead a bird walk, local bird/conservation organizations are invited to table, and multiple educational activities will be happening throughout the day.

Come learn more about bears! Activities include crafts for kids, special keeper chats about bears, and a learning station where you can find out more about bear conservation and research, and what to do if you see a bear. We will set up a sample campsite in the bear enclosure to teach you how to camp responsibly in bear country.

Join the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary at the Black Canyon Bistro for the premiere gala and fundraiser for the sanctuary. The Eder family of Red Lodge will be honored for their generous financial and volunteer support to the Sanctuary over many years. It will be an evening you won't forget. Wild Encounter - $140 per guest includes Dinner and Wild Encounter Doors open at 4:45 pm Cash bar with signature cocktails Visit with Dave Pauli, wildlife rescue expert and YWS board member Encounter with ambassador animal, presented by YWS Education and Animal Care Staff Wild of Wonder Dinner - $100 per guest 6:00 pm Champagne and appetizers followed by dinner Brief introductions Silent and live auctions

The Fun Run has raised millions of dollars for Red Lodge area nonprofits. The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is always involved, and often has staff and board members working as race coordinators and volunteers in addition to the educational booth we always set up.

We are partnering with the Red Lodge Dark Skies group once again for our Equinox Star Party on September 23 beginning at 7:15pm. Come join for a Night Tour of our facility starting at 7:15pm to see what our animals are up to at night, learn about nocturnal behaviors, and the effects of light pollution. This will be followed by a star gazing session, led by the Dark Skies Group by the vultures from 8:30 to 9:30. Come for one or both! Members receive 10% off of admission and the gift shop.  Please enter your membership number (promo code) during check out.  Tour and Stargazing - $15 adults, $6 children. Stargazing Only $7.50 adults, $3 children

It’s the best day of the year! It’s a day to celebrate and learn more about raccoons and appreciate a number of species that are widely considered “pests”. Join us at the Sanctuary for special raccoon-themed activities, limited edition t-shirts, special raccoon feeding and enrichment, and to celebrate this often underrated species! Meeka and Cooper can’t wait to celebrate! Limited edition t-shirts are available for pre-order through September 9. Shirts bought for this event will raise funds to support enrichment for our raccoons, Cooper and Meeka. Get your Raccoon Day T-Shirt here.

Change of date due to WeatherNovember 4 - Trick or Treat with our resident wildlife for a “hoooowling" good time! Trick or Treating is from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. Guides Tour at 7:00 pm Come join the spooky fun!

If you’ve never been here for Red Lodge’s annual Christmas Stroll, your holiday season is missing some of its magic. For two evenings, downtown shops open their doors late with goodies and treats, while the entire town turns out for the kind of holiday cheer and goodwill that keeps the hearth fires burning ‘til spring.

Join us in February for Winter Camp!

A Wild of Wonder Valentines’ Event Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary: Hearts Gone Wild Friday, February 9, 2024 Pollard Hotel - Hemingway Room, 2 Broadway Ave N, Red Lodge, MT  The Event begins at 5:30 P.M, doors open at 5:00 pm Hearty Appetizers, Wine, and Cash Bar  Wild Entertainment provided by: Dave Pauli* Join us for a celebration of romance of the wildest kind! Dave will explore the “romantic" behaviors among the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem’s best-known and least-known species -- including some of our Sanctuary residents! This holiday FUNdraiser will have you laughing while you learn the mating secrets that researchers have discovered about our wild Yellowstone neighbors. Dave’s interactive presentation will be filled with fascinating findings, tantalizing tidbits, and serious science about wildlife reproduction. For an evening of good, clean fun, buy your tickets today! * Dave Pauli has 45 years of experience rescuing and rehabilitating wild animals. He’s traveled the world from Morocco to Maui, handling species from backyard turtles to the elusive wolverine. Dave is program manager for wildlife conflict resolution for the Humane Society of the U.S. Among other roles, he serves on the YWS board, he advises Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks committees, and he chairs the Science and […]

Member's Only Special Event  - New Animal Meet-and-Greet! Be the first to meet our new great-horned owl, Dave! Members earn the special privilege of meeting our animals first, so members, this event is for you! Come by on Sunday between 12 and 2:00 pm to see Dave in his new enclosure with Bobby, learn all about his unique journey and great horned owls in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. If you are not a member, or need to renew your membership, the gift shop will be open at the time to purchase a new one.  Only the bird area will be accessible for viewing at the time. You can become a member here.   

Equinox Star Party - YWS Outreach   Location: Whistler Observatory Time: March 20th, 8:30-10:00 This spring for the Equinox we will be celebrating at the brand new Whistler Observatory in Van Dyke Park, Red Lodge. YWS will be present to discuss how light pollution affects local wildlife, and telescope and star stories will be provided by Red Lodge Dark Skies. Attendance is free and welcome anytime between 8:30 pm - 10:00 pm.  

Submit art of your favorite Yellowstone Ecosystem animal by April 21st. Include a way to help wildlife, your name, and contact information for a chance to win! Voting will take place in the Education Building where the art will be hung throughout April and May. Winners will be announced by May 31st!

Join local artist Janice Polzin for a painting experience and lots of fun. Our last paint with Janice was a huge success. Artists will paint one of our beautiful animals with professional painting tips. Sign up now! Limited to 15 participants $45 - members get a discount Materials, paint, and something to sip provided. Come early to tour the Sanctuary before class begins

If you serve Red Lodge, you are invited to YWS on Sundays in April for FREE! You matter to us and we appreciate you!  Free tours every Sunday in April from 1:00-2:00 pm.  Meet in the gift shop.  We look forward to seeing you. Retail Health Care City Workers Red Lodge Mountain & Golf Course Servers, Bartenders, Cooks Fire Station, Police, SAR IGA, Family Dollar, Pharmacy, etc.

YWS celebrates Earth Day with presentations on the environment, wildlife, and creatures of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. See speaker series below. The day includes a visit throughout the Sanctuary. Presentations will take place in the Education Building from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm in the following order. Guests are welcome to stop in for the one that peaks their interest, or stay for all!   1.  Luke LaPointe (Land Steward and Big Sky Watershed Corps Member) and Lily Morris (Teacher Naturalist) from Montana Audubon Topic: Forest Health and Management in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem 2. Eden Wondra, Red Lodge Dark Skies representative Topic: A Sky Worth Preserving: Dark Skies, Light Pollution, and the Effect on Wildlife in Red Lodge 3. Barb Beck (Regional Supervisor at Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Retired) Topic: Wildlife and Roads 4. Joe Josephson (New Director of Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness Foundation Bio:Joe Josephson was born in Big Timber and raised in the Beartooths and currently serves as the Executive Director for the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Foundation. With a diverse background working at the early Stillwater Mine, with the Forest Service during the '88 fires, publishing award-winning guidebooks to stopping foreign-backed gold mines next to Yellowstone, […]

Bring mom to celebrate Mother’s day as YWS’ guest and Mom enjoys a discount in the gift shop.

Come learn more about bears! Activities include crafts for kids, special keeper chats about bears, and a learning station where you can find out more about bear conservation and research, and what to do if you see a bear. We will set up a sample campsite in the bear enclosure to teach you how to camp responsibly in bear country. Purchase tickets the day of in the gift shop:$15.00 Adults$12.00 Seniors and Military$ 6.00 Children Members$10.00 Adults (no other discounts applied for Sr or Military)$ 4.00 Children

Our "Little Keeper Camp," is geared towards new little explorers of this world who have an affinity for animals. This camp is for kids ages 2-5, although being potty-trained is a requirement. Camp is offered from 9:30am -11:30am every other Monday of Summer. We do a different theme every week, so sign up for one or as many as you wish! Guardians are welcome to stay with their kid if they wish.   Members, use your promo code at check out to receive your discount! Email education@yellowstonewildlife.org with questions. 

Bring dad to visit as YWS’s guests and Dad enjoys a discount in the gift shop.

The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary hosts Junior Keeper Camp each summer to inspire the next generation of animal caregivers. Camp is for kids ages 5-11. Join this year for 4 days of fun and learning! Camp is from June 17-20th, 9:30 am-12 pm. We are encouraging younger campers to join this first camp, and older campers to join the one in July when possible. Kids will meet the keepers who take care of the Sanctuary animals, learn about and help out with various animal care tasks, and be challenged to give their own Keeper Talk by the end of the week on an animal of their choice. And of course we will sprinkle in some classic camp activities and fun, all with an animal twist! Members, use your PromoCode to receive your discount! Please reach out to education@yellowstonewildlife.org with questions.

Our "Little Keeper Camp," is geared towards new little explorers of this world who have an affinity for animals. This camp is for kids ages 2-5, although being potty-trained is a requirement. Camp is offered from 9:30am -11:30am every other Monday of Summer. We do a different theme every week, so sign up for one or as many as you wish! Guardians are welcome to stay with their kid if they wish.   Members, use your promo code at check out to receive your discount! Email education@yellowstonewildlife.org with questions. 

June is Bison Birthday Month at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary! Our Bison Birthday Party is Saturday, June 29th. Join in as we celebrate Speedy’s 23rd birthday. The day will be filled with activities for kids, special enrichment for the animals, and our annual Bison-Pie Bingo. YWS will have birthday cake for all guests. For those who are hungry, Samurai Sues Everyday Foods will be selling lunch. Bison Bingo, a main attraction each year, will be at the bison enclosure at 11:00AM. You may be the lucky winner whose square is where the bison drops its first "pie."  To buy your bingo square, visit our gift shop or call 406-446-1133 and request your square! Be sure to visit Pilot and Index, our two gray wolves. Event Day Schedule 10:00AM          YWS Opens for Special Event (Event admission rates will apply) 10:15AM          Dedication of Lee Kerns Sculpture of Speedy the Bison (The Sculpture dedication will be at the entrance of the Sanctuary just after opening on Bison Birthday, June 29th. The sculpture is a creation of Lee Kerns of Red Lodge and is our beloved Speedy. The sculpture is placed at YWS in memory of William Wondra and provided through memorial gifts in his honor.) 11:00AM          […]

Our "Little Keeper Camp," is geared towards new little explorers of this world who have an affinity for animals. This camp is for kids ages 2-5, although being potty-trained is a requirement. Camp is offered from 9:30am -11:30am every other Monday of Summer. We do a different theme every week, so sign up for one or as many as you wish! Guardians are welcome to stay with their kid if they wish.  Members, use your promo code at check out to receive your discount! Email education@yellowstonewildlife.org with questions. 

Our "Little Keeper Camp," is geared towards new little explorers of this world who have an affinity for animals. This camp is for kids ages 3-5, although being potty-trained is a requirement. Camp is offered from 9:30am -11:30am every other Monday of Summer. We do a different theme every week, so sign up for one or as many as you wish! Guardians are welcome to stay with their kid if they wish.  Members, use your promo code at check out to receive your discount! Email education@yellowstonewildlife.org with questions. 

The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary hosts Junior Keeper Camp each summer to inspire the next generation of animal caregivers. Camp is for kids ages 5-11. Join this year for 4 days of fun and learning! Camp is from July 29th - August 1st, 9:30 am-12 pm. We are encouraging younger campers to join this first camp in June, and older campers to join this one when possible. Kids will meet the keepers who take care of the Sanctuary animals, learn about and help out with various animal care tasks, and be challenged to give their own Keeper Talk by the end of the week on an animal of their choice. And of course we will sprinkle in some classic camp activities and fun, all with an animal twist! Members, use your PromoCode to receive your discount! Please reach out to education@yellowstonewildlife.org with questions. 

Our "Little Keeper Camp," is geared towards new little explorers of this world who have an affinity for animals. This camp is for kids ages 2-5, although being potty-trained is a requirement. Camp is offered from 9:30am -11:30am every other Monday of Summer. We do a different theme every week, so sign up for one or as many as you wish! Guardians are welcome to stay with their kid if they wish.     Members, use your promo code at check out to receive your discount! Email education@yellowstonewildlife.org with questions. 

Join local artist Janice Polzin for a painting experience and lots of fun. It is a wonderful art adventure as we paint one of YWS' residents. Each person's painting will be unique and expressive.Artists will paint one of our beautiful animals with professional painting tips. Sign up now! Limited to 15 participants 2:00 - 4:30 pm $45 (members receive a discount) Materials, paint, and something to sip provided.

Come visit the Sanctuary on Grandparents day. Grandparents free - with or without - their grandchildren.

On Saturday, September 14, 2024, Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary invites the public to join in their Fall Bear Awareness activities at the Sanctuary. This event is held each year at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary in Red Lodge. At our event, you can practice bear-spray skills and learn bear safety from interactive displays. You can talk with FWP regional bear specialists about recent incidents around Red Lodge and how to deter bears from your property. There will be crafts and games to make learning fun for the whole family! YWS will be open for Bear Awareness Day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For a special treat, time your visit to be at our bear enclosure at 11:00 AM. We will have a campsite set up and will allow our resident black bears, Bo and Blueberry, to “have at it.” You may be surprised just how capable they are of wrecking a campsite, complete with a tent, picnic table, coolers, and food.

Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary and Red Lodge Dark Skies join together to provide a fall equinox experience. Red Lodge Dark Skies is a sector of the Hero’s STEAM Center, a non-profit organization. YWS provides a tour at dark of the Sanctuary’s wildlife focusing on the importance of retaining our dark skies for humans and animals alike. Later in the event, Red Lodge Dark Skies provides telescopes for viewing the fall Equinox and shares stories of the stars. It is an enchanting evening under the stars. Tour and Star Gazing begins at 7:45 pm Purchase tickets the day of in the gift shop:$15.00 Adults$12.00 Seniors and Military$ 6.00 Children Members$10.00 Adults (no other discounts applied for Sr or Military)$ 4.00 Children Star Gazing Only begins at 9:00pm $10.00 Adults, Seniors, Military Children – Free

October 1st is National Raccoon Day throughout the land. If you are attracted to shiny new things, the raccoon may be your spirit animal. In any case, Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary celebrates National Raccoon Day each year. This year, the Sanctuary will celebrate raccoons on Saturday, October 5th. In honor of the day, YWS has created a special T-shirt that can be ordered in advance and worn to the event. Raccoon lovers will enjoy keeper talks about raccoons and their adaptations to their environment and their love for shiny things. Cooper and Meeka, the Sanctuary’s two residents, will be honored as the species of the day. Join YWS as we celebrate their stories of survival. Donation on that day will go to improving the habitat, enrichment, and quality of life for Cooper and Meeka. Regular admission applies and members are free​

Join us at the sanctuary - Kids can paint pumpkins, trick, or treat with the animals, and see the sanctuary.

Winter Wildlife Explorers is designed for campers ages 8 and up, offering an in-depth exploration of winter wildlife through hands-on activities and engaging projects. Each week, campers will dive into a new scientific topic related to winter wildlife, while also working on a special enrichment project that will span the entire camp. Held every other Saturday in February and March from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park. February 8th: Winter Wildlife Ecology

WINTER WILDLIFE JUNIOR CAMP is designed for young explorers ages 4-7, offering a fun and educational way to learn about winter wildlife science. Each week features a new theme focused on winter wildlife and the wonders of the season, with plenty of outdoor exploration to observe local residents who thrive in the winter weather. Held EVERY OTHER SATURDAY IN FEBRUARY AND MARCH FROM 1:00 PM TO 3:30 PM, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park. Throughout the camp, campers will also have the unique opportunity to vote on a name for a new education ambassador, coming soon to the program! This camp is perfect for curious minds eager to explore winter ecology and the science of the season in more detail. February 1st: Winter Superpowers Register Here

Winter Wildlife Junior Camp is designed for young explorers ages 4-7, offering a fun and educational way to learn about winter wildlife science. Each week features a new theme focused on winter wildlife and the wonders of the season, with plenty of outdoor exploration to observe local residents who thrive in the winter weather. Held every other Saturday in February and March from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park. February 15th: Tracks and Snowshoeing

Winter Wildlife Explorers is designed for campers ages 8 and up, offering an in-depth exploration of winter wildlife through hands-on activities and engaging projects. Each week, campers will dive into a new scientific topic related to winter wildlife, while also working on a special enrichment project that will span the entire camp. Held every other Saturday in February and March from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park February 22nd: Science in the Snow

Winter Wildlife Junior Camp is designed for young explorers ages 4-7, offering a fun and educational way to learn about winter wildlife science. Each week features a new theme focused on winter wildlife and the wonders of the season, with plenty of outdoor exploration to observe local residents who thrive in the winter weather. Held every other Saturday in February and March from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park. March 1st: Winter Wildlife Art

Winter Wildlife Explorers is designed for campers ages 8 and up, offering an in-depth exploration of winter wildlife through hands-on activities and engaging projects. Each week, campers will dive into a new scientific topic related to winter wildlife, while also working on a special enrichment project that will span the entire camp. Held every other Saturday in February and March from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park March 8th: Winter Wildlife Art

Winter Wildlife Junior Camp is designed for young explorers ages 4-7, offering a fun and educational way to learn about winter wildlife science. Each week features a new theme focused on winter wildlife and the wonders of the season, with plenty of outdoor exploration to observe local residents who thrive in the winter weather. Held every other Saturday in February and March from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park. March 15th: Science in the Snow

Winter Wildlife Explorers is designed for campers ages 8 and up, offering an in-depth exploration of winter wildlife through hands-on activities and engaging projects. Each week, campers will dive into a new scientific topic related to winter wildlife, while also working on a special enrichment project that will span the entire camp. Held every other Saturday in February and March from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, this camp is the perfect opportunity to get your child outside and engaged in hands-on learning through play and activities. Campers will explore exciting topics through indoor activities in our education building, outdoor adventures on the sanctuary grounds, and nature walks on the trails of Coal Miners Park March 22nd: Birding with Billings Audubon Center

Paint our super star! Meeka  On Saturday, April 19th from 2:00-4:30PM, artist Janice Polzin returns to YWS for another fun and informative painting session. Janice will guide attendees to complete a painting of one of YWS’ beautiful animals. Supplies are provided with the fee for admission. Reservations to participate can be made online.

During the month of May, Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary will provide bear information and training for safety including: How to recognize the difference between a black bear and a grizzly. How to identify signs of bear activity. How to carry and use bear spray. How to report bear activity to keep bears and humans safe. How to plan for safe hiking and camping in bear country. What to do if you come face-to-face with a bear. Join us from 10am - 4 pm

Get an exclusive morning tour of the animals!

First Annual Clare Witcomb Day
YWS biggest fundraiser of the year AND the place to be on June 7!

Join in for a midday event, including lunch.

Learn how to be an animal keeper!

 Step into the shoes of a wildlife caretaker at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary!

It is Bison Birthday Party Time

Learn to be an animal keeper

 Step into the shoes of a wildlife caretaker at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary!

Learn to be an animal keeper

Step into the shoes of a wildlife caretaker at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary!

On Saturday, September 13, 2024, Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary invites the public to join in their Fall Bear Awareness activities at the Sanctuary. This event is held each year at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary in Red Lodge. At our event, you can practice bear-spray skills and learn bear safety from interactive displays. There will be crafts and games to make learning fun for the whole family! YWS will be open for Bear Awareness Day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For a special treat, time your visit to be at our bear enclosure at 11:00 AM. We will have a campsite set up and will allow our resident black bears, Bo and Blueberry. You may be surprised just how capable they are of wrecking a campsite, complete with a tent, picnic table, coolers, and food!

Celebrate Vulture Awareness Day at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary! Learn about the vital role vultures play in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem during keeper talks and watch as Uncle Fester and Lurch enjoy special enrichment activities. Come see these fascinating birds up close and discover why they deserve our appreciation. All Day - 10am -4pm (last admission 3:30)

*Pre-Registration IS REQUIRED*  ONLY 15 SPOTS AVAILABLE Join us for a creative afternoon as local artist Janice Polzin guides you in painting a portrait of one of our most captivating resident animals—Pilot or Index, our beautiful gray wolves. Bring your creativity and leave with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece inspired by these incredible animals. Before the event, you have the option to join a private tour at 1:00 PM to meet some of our amazing resident animals, including Pilot and Index. This is a great opportunity to learn about their stories and get inspired before picking up your paintbrush. If you’d like to join, check in at the gift shop when you arrive. At 1:45 PM, check in at the gift shop and head to the Education Building to get set up. Then at 2:00 PM, the Paint & Sip fun begins! Janice, a magnificent artist in Carbon County, is also the talent behind many of Red Lodge’s beautiful murals, including the one on our badger enclosure at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary. This special event will shine a spotlight on Pilot and Index, who became part of the YWS family in 2024. This brother and sister duo were born at a roadside zoo […]

Have you ever wondered what the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is like after dark? Many of our animals, including our great horned owls Bobby and Dave, are most active once the sun sets. On Saturday, September 20th, join us for a special evening at the sanctuary. The night begins at 7:45 PM with a guided tour, where you will meet our nocturnal residents and learn how darkness shapes their world. After the tour, Red Lodge Dark Skies will provide telescopes for viewing the night sky and will share stories of the fall equinox. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are limited to 30 guests. This is a rare opportunity to experience the sanctuary after hours and see the stars in a whole new way.

Join the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary team on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the Roosevelt Center Auditorium in Red Lodge, MT, for an evening dedicated to supporting and celebrating wildlife care. Your ticket includes a delicious buffet dinner and two complimentary drinks, along with the chance to hear about exciting improvements at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary—like new bobcat housing, an expanded coyote yard, bird flight yards, and winter quarters for Roxanne the badger. While grants often support building projects, the Sanctuary depends on this community to provide for the daily needs of its 33 resident animals. Your participation helps cover the costs of food, vet care, enrichment, and winter necessities like plowing, heating, and staff access to animal enclosures. Every ticket and donation makes a direct impact: the purchase of your ticket may mean warm heat lamps for raptors, healthy meals for black bears, or safe shelter for wolves and bison during Montana’s long winter.

Celebrate the season at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary on Saturday, October 25th! Our sanctuary will be full of autumn fun from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, giving you and your family the perfect opportunity to experience the sanctuary in a whole new light. Throughout the day, enjoy trick-or-treating with our animal ambassadors, from wolves to owls, and discover fascinating facts about our residents. Special wolf keeper talks will give you an up-close look at these incredible animals and their stories, while seasonal games and crafts provide fun for visitors of all ages. Wander through the sanctuary decorated for fall, enjoy the crisp autumn air, and soak in the cozy, festive atmosphere. Costumes are encouraged, making this a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate the season and support local wildlife. Don’t miss the chance to howl along with our wolves and enjoy a day full of fall fun at the sanctuary.

Join us for Winter Wildlife Camp! Register for one or all of the camps. Each camp runs from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM.  Camps are for ages 5-10. Jan 24 Feb 7 Feb 21 Mar 7 Mar 21

Join Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary for our first Hot Cocoa & Wildlife event! As you make your way into Red Lodge for the annual Christmas Stroll weekend, stop by Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to get the festive fun started.  Along with our animals enjoying fun enrichment, we’ll have activities for the whole family and a special schedule with the educators at YWS! At 11am and 1pm there will be a story time in the education building featuring “When Winter Comes,” an engaging story that explores what happens with our wildlife during the winter months. Following story time, at 11:30am and 1:30pm, there will be a special animal encounter with our tiger salamanders, M&M and Scherbatsky. We’ll bring them to you and share more about their stories and what these native salamanders do in the winter.It’s going to be a festive and fun day to kick off your holiday weekend! Regular admission price applies.Hours: 10am–4pm (last admission at 3:30pm)

Join Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary for our first Hot Cocoa & Wildlife event! As you make your way into Red Lodge for the annual Christmas Stroll weekend, stop by Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to get the festive fun started.  Along with our animals enjoying fun enrichment, we’ll have activities for the whole family and a special schedule with the educators at YWS! At 11am and 1pm there will be a story time in the education building featuring “When Winter Comes,” an engaging story that explores what happens with our wildlife during the winter months. Following story time, at 11:30am and 1:30pm, there will be a special animal encounter with our tiger salamanders, M&M and Scherbatsky. We’ll bring them to you and share more about their stories and what these native salamanders do in the winter.It’s going to be a festive and fun day to kick off your holiday weekend! Regular admission price applies.Hours: 10am–4pm (last admission at 3:30pm)

Earth Day Pint Night at Sam's Taproom: Celebrate Earth Day with YWS at Sam’s Taproom in Red Lodge, Montana! From 6pm to 8pm, $1 from every beer, cider, and wine sold will support YWS and the animals in our care. Join us at the taproom, located at 1445 Broadway Ave N, Red Lodge, MT 59068.

I Serve Red Lodge Weekend: Join us at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary for I Serve Red Lodge Weekend! All weekend long, YWS will be saying thank you to the individuals who serve the Red Lodge community. Whether you work at the ski mountain, in one of our many local restaurants, or with a nonprofit organization, you will receive half-price admission when you share how you serve Red Lodge.

May is Bear Education Month at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary! Every weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday),   YWS will be sharing bear safety tips, including bear spray training.   Join us at 11am and 1pm for Bear Keeper Talks, where you will meet our bears, Bo and Bluebeary, while learning from our education and animal care team.   Also, don’t forget that bear spray expires. We will be collecting expired bear spray throughout the entire month. 

On Sunday, May 10th, all mothers receive FREE admission to Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, plus 20% off merchandise in the gift shop. Celebrate your mom at YWS with a fun-filled day of crafts and activities!

Montana is bear country! This Memorial Day Weekend, Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is hosting a fun and educational day focused on how we can all help keep bears safe.   Join us for bear spray demonstrations, keeper talks, and interactive campsite demos featuring our resident bears, Bo and Bluebeary. Learn what to do (and what not to do) when living and recreating in bear country.   Bears in Montana are already aware of people. The question is: are you prepared to do your part to keep them safe? Save the date and stay tuned for a full schedule of events. Let’s work together to keep bears wild and thriving in Montana. Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary will be open from 10am to 4pm.

Join us at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary for a special afternoon celebrating pollinators, wildlife, and community at our Tea Party on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM!    This event is held in memory of Clare Witcomb, an extraordinary woman whose passion and dedication helped shape both Beartooth Nature Center and Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary. Clare was a guiding force through the Sanctuary’s transformation, and her legacy continues to inspire education, conservation, and community connection for generations to come.   Guests can enjoy:• Pollinator-themed keeper talks• Garden tours• Tea party treats and refreshments• A fun, family-friendly atmosphere for all ages   Bring your friends and family for an afternoon of education, conversation, and celebration surrounded by the beauty of the sanctuary.   Tickets will be available to purchase in the gift shop the day of.Adults: $20 | Children: $6

Luna is turning 12 this year! Join us on June 27th for our annual Bison Birthday Party celebration. The day will include Bison Pie Bingo, Kona Ice, bison education, and plenty of fun for all ages.    Stay tuned for a full schedule of events!   Order your bison birthday tshirt here.

As fall approaches and bears prepare for winter, join Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary for a day of learning all about bears and how we can safely share the landscape with them. Throughout the day, visitors can practice their bear spray skills, attend Bear Aware presentations, explore interactive bear safety activities, and enjoy fun crafts and games for the whole family. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about bear behavior, safety, and the importance of being bear aware in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Be sure to visit the bear enclosure for special bear keeper talks at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm featuring our resident black bears, Bo and Bluebeary. These talks offer a closer look at their behaviors, personalities, and what it takes to care for bears in a sanctuary setting. Time: 10:00 am –4:00 pmLast admission: 3:30 pm

Celebrate Grandparents Day with a visit to Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary! On Sunday, September 13, grandparents receive FREE admission with the purchase of an adult or child admission. Spend the day exploring the sanctuary, meeting our resident wildlife, and making memories together. Time: All Day - 10am -4pm (last admission 3:30)

 Spend an afternoon celebrating wildlife through art! Join local Carbon County artist Janice Polzin for a special Paint & Sip inspired by Switch, one of Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary’s western screech owls. Janice will guide you step-by-step as you create your own one-of-a-kind owl portrait to take home. Want to meet the inspiration behind your painting? Join us for an optional private tour at 12:00 pm to meet some of our resident animals, including Switch, and learn more about their stories. Check in at the gift shop when you arrive if you’d like to participate. At 12:45 pm, check in at the gift shop and head to the Education Building to get settled. Painting begins at 1:00 pm. Janice is a talented local artist whose work can be found throughout Red Lodge, including the mural on Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary’s badger enclosure. Switch is a western screech owl who came to the sanctuary after recovering from an injury. Due to habituation, she is unable to survive in the wild and now serves as an important ambassador for her species. Through her story, we help visitors learn about owl adaptations, nocturnal behavior, and the importance of protecting native raptors and their habitats. Pre-registration […]

Have you ever wondered what Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is like after dark? As the sun sets, many of our animals become more active. Join Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary and Red Lodge Dark Skies for a special evening exploring the sanctuary after hours and discovering the nighttime world of our resident wildlife. The evening begins with a guided tour of the sanctuary, where you’ll meet some of our nocturnal residents and learn how darkness shapes the lives of animals. After the tour, Red Lodge Dark Skies will provide telescopes for an opportunity to explore the night sky and learn more about the fall equinox. This unique after-hours experience is a chance to see the sanctuary, and the stars above it, in a whole new way. Saturday, September 20th7:45 PM to 9:00 PMAdvance purchase required, 30 available

Spend an evening after hours at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary for our Wild of Wonder Pop-Up Event! From 5:00 - 7:00 PM, enjoy the Sanctuary in a whole new way with wildlife, party food and beverages, and plenty of opportunities to visit with the staff and learn more about the animals who call YWS home. This fun, family-friendly evening is a community fundraiser, but you won’t find auctions, raffles, or wine pulls here. Instead, we’re keeping things casual and focusing on what matters most - the wildlife. Come after work, bring the kids, grab a bite, and enjoy an evening at the Sanctuary while learning more about the care we provide every day.   

Join Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary for a fun-filled day celebrating two of our most playful and charismatic residents—Cooper and Meeka! This special event highlights everything that makes raccoons so fascinating, from their incredible problem-solving skills to their curious, hands-on approach to the world around them. Guests will have the chance to learn more about raccoon behavior, adaptations, and the important role these clever animals play in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Throughout the day, enjoy engaging activities, keeper talks, and opportunities to get to know Cooper and Meeka’s unique personalities while exploring the sanctuary. It’s a perfect day for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone who appreciates a little mischief and a lot of charm. Order your special Raccoon Day t-shirt here! Time: All Day - 10 am -4 pm (last admission 3:30)