ZooVerse: Heroes, Creators & the Wild Side of Pop Culture
A one-day adventure where superheroes, pop culture, and wildlife collide, only at the Topeka Zoo.
Beyond the Zoo gates lies ZooVerse—a realm where superheroes walk among animals and imagination rules the kingdom.
Wander a wild landscape of comics, toys, games, sports, music, and wildlife. Meet local creators, authors and collectors who bring these worlds to life and discover the incredible animals who are the Zoo’s original superheroes.
With food trucks fueling the adventure, a kids’ bouncy house for young heroes, and photo-ready moments throughout, ZooVerse is a first-of-its-kind crossover event: a full-on collision of pop culture and the wild…and Topeka has never seen anything like it.
Costumes are encouraged.
Capes are optional.
Fun is mandatory.
Special Guests
Alex Grecian, Author
Floral Moon Cosplay
Bad Ash Cosplay
Bad Ash Cosplay
Featured Guests
Colton Strathman, Artist
Saturday, March 7, 2026
At the Topeka Zoo
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
$15 Adults • $10 Kids + Seniors
This event is designated as a premium event day, and member discounts or free admission do not apply.
Please Note: as a fundraiser for the zoo, all ticket purchases are non-refundable.
Saturday, March 7, 2026
At the Topeka Zoo
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
$15 Adults
$10 Kids + Seniors
This event is designated as a premium event day, and member discounts or free admission do not apply.
Costume & Cosplay Guidelines
ZooVerse welcomes creativity, cosplay, and fandom fun for all ages! To help keep everyone safe and comfortable, please note:
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Full face masks and face coverings are not permitted (except for medical or religious reasons). Full masks permitted during contest only. Face paint and makeup are welcome.
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Costumes must be family-friendly and appropriate for a public setting.
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No weapons or prop weapons, including toys or replica items.
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Costumes should allow clear vision and safe movement throughout the Zoo.
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No sharp edges or oversized props that may interfere with guests, animals, or pathways.
Zoo staff reserve the right to request costume adjustments to ensure the safety of all guests and animals.
Capes and costumes encouraged. Fun required.
Cosplay Contest
Participation in the ZooVerse Cosplay Contest is optional and open to all ages. Contestants must follow all ZooVerse Costume & Cosplay Guidelines and always adhere to Zoo safety policies.
No full-face masks or face coverings (except for medical or religious reasons) until contest time.
No weapons or prop weapons
Costumes must be family-friendly and allow for safe movement and clear vision
By participating, contestants grant the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center permission to photograph and record their likeness for promotional and marketing purposes.
Zoo staff and event judges reserve the right to disqualify entries that do not meet safety, appropriateness, or policy requirements.
Judging criteria may include creativity, craftsmanship, originality, and overall presentation.
Age Divisions
Cosplay Contest entries will be judged within the following age divisions:
Ages 12 and under
Ages 13 and up
