The 81st WAZA Annual Conference will take place from 25–29 October 2026 at Cologne Zoo, Germany. WAZA’s flagship annual event brings together leaders from zoos, aquariums, conservation organisations and associations worldwide to share insights, strengthen collaboration and explore key sector challenges.
The 2026 edition marks a return of the conference to Europe and will celebrate heritage, leadership and global commitment to species conservation. Cologne Zoo is one of Europe’s oldest zoological institutions, and is recognised for its pioneering conservation programmes.
More details on registration, the programme and speaker announcements will be shared closer to the event.



