Beloved Lion Water Fountain Returns to the Central Coast Zoo in Time for the New “Woo at the Zoo” on Valentine’s Day!

Double the Fun! Saturday, February 14th!

The City of Atascadero and the Central Coast Zoo are proud to announce the return of one of the Zoo’s most cherished and iconic features – the beautifully refurbished, children’s water fountain, “Leo the Lion!” – just in time for Valentine’s Day and the debut of the Zoo’s brand-new event, Woo at the Zoo.

The celebration will begin with a special ribbon cutting and unveiling of the children’s water fountain, “Leo the Lion,” at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 14, marking the official return of Leo and the kickoff of Woo at the Zoo. The Valentine’s themed event will continue from 10 am until 1 pm offering guests a fun and meaningful way to celebrate heart month, wildlife, and community. 

For generations of local families, the children’s Lion Water Fountain has served as a beloved backdrop for photos, memories, and first Zoo visits. Its return marks a meaningful moment for the Zoo and the community, reconnecting the past with the present.

To celebrate the fountains return, the Zoo is inviting the public to participate in a social media photo promotion. Community members are encouraged to comment on the Zoo’s Facebook or Instagram post with a photo of themselves or of their kids or grandkids with the Lion Fountain – whether from years past or during a recent visit for a chance to win a Hydro flask filled with Valentine goodies. If you don’t have a photo, comment anyway, and you will be entered. Photo submissions will be accepted until 11 am on February 14th both in person and in social media. The winner will be announced later that afternoon and does not need to be present to win! (Please note: City employees are not eligible to win)

“This fountain holds a special place in the hearts of our community,” said Zoo Director, Dr. Cynthia Stringfield. “Its return honors the memories generations have shared here, and we sincerely thank the Lions Clubs of San Miguel and Templeton and H&R Block of SLO County for supporting this important restoration.”

Woo at the Zoo will feature Valentine’s themed activities, special keeper talks about how animals choose their mates, and enrichment activities for the animals. All activities and the ribbon cutting are included with general admission and are free for members.

The Central Coast Zoo is home to nearly 100 animal species representing more than 300 animals, including red pandas, monkeys, fossa, meerkats, parrots, a variety of reptiles and more. The Zoo is located at Atascadero Lake Park just one mile west of the 101 Freeway at Highway 41/Morro Road. For promotion details about Leo the Lion and event updates, follow us on Facebook & Instagram - @centralcoastzooca. For more information, go to www.centralcoastzoo.org or call (805) 461-5080.