The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, and institutions, is inviting members to submit bids for the 81st WAZA Annual Conference.
The annual event provides an opportunity for zoo and aquarium professionals from across the world to come together and discuss key issues. Attendees can look forward to a comprehensive agenda, with opportunities to network, collaborate, and share knowledge. The conference takes place in a different part of the world each year to foster global connection and collaboration.
See also: WAZA: a global force for conservation, animal welfare, and sustainability
Submission deadline 21 May
The 81st WAZA Annual Conference will take place in late October / early November 2026. The Association is seeking a host venue that can accommodate up to 350 guests, and that will ensure sustainable operations for the event.
Applications should include:
- A letter of interest from the WAZA member institution. This should state its motivation for hosting the event, and be signed by the director or CEO.
- A letter of interest from the institution’s city detailing its motivation to host the conference.
- A short PowerPoint presentation or video of no more than 2 minutes to support the application.
- A completed application form.
Please download the conference guide for full details of the hosting requirements. The application form is available here.
The deadline for submissions is 17.00 CEST (GMT +2) on 21 May 2025.
Early submission is recommended so that the validity of the bid can be confirmed in due time. The WAZA Office’s initial application review will take place in May 2025, and the WAZA Council will evaluate the shortlisted bids in June 2025. Shortlisted applications may be invited to a virtual bid presentation to the WAZA Council in June 2025.
The 2026 Conference host is set to be announced in June 2025.
The 80th WAZA Annual Conference is taking from 26 to 30 October 2025 and will be hosted by Fundación Zoológica de Cali. Also known as Cali Zoo, this institution works to promote the natural and cultural heritage of Colombia by connecting people with wildlife and conservation.
WAZA recently announced the winners of its Conservation Award, Environment Sustainability Award and Heini Hediger Award at the 79th Annual Conference.
