LA Zoo to 'zooLAbrate' 50 years with ticket discounts, party

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens will "ZooLAbrate" its 50th anniversary Monday with treats for animals, birthday parties and discounts on tickets for visitors.

The 113-acre zoo opened its doors on Nov. 28, 1966. Since then, it has grown and houses 1,100 animals representing 250 species, including many that are rare or endangered. The gardens features 7,000 plants from more than 800 species.

On Monday, visitors can enter the park for $10 general admission, $8.50 for seniors age 62 and older and $7.50 for kids between the ages of 2 and 12, while children under 2 may come in for free. Birthday activities the park will feature are included in the price.

Visitors can also enjoy 50 percent off food and beverages, excluding alcohol and meals from Reggie's Bistro.

Starting at 10 a.m., guests can head to the front of the zoo for a party with costumed characters and keepers who will have small animals from the walk-about program.

Between 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., there will be a ZooLAbrate birthday party near Eucalyptus Grove, featuring a themed birthday cake and large card people can sign.

From 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., visitors can watch animals throughout the park receive special enrichment birthday cake style treats.

People who want to share their memories at the zoo and get a look at special offers on events and other content may visit www.zoolabrate50.org.