Louisiana Governor Proclaims October 18 as “Chimp Haven Day”
KEITHVILLE, La. — Chimp Haven, the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary, will mark its 30th anniversary with a special fall Chimpanzee Discovery Day on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon. In honor of the milestone, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry will issue a formal proclamation declaring October 18 “Chimp Haven Day” in the State of Louisiana.
“On the 30th anniversary of its founding, I extend the gratitude of Louisiana to Chimp Haven, the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary and a model for providing expert care and retirement to hundreds of chimpanzees,” shared Governor Jeff Landry. “As we celebrate, I am honored to issue a proclamation naming October 18 ‘Chimp Haven Day’ in our great state.”
Founded three decades ago with a vision to provide exemplary lifelong care for chimpanzees—most retired from biomedical research—Chimp Haven today spans 200 acres of forested habitat near Shreveport and is home to 300 chimpanzees.
“Discovery Day is always a joyful peek into sanctuary life—but pairing it with our 30th anniversary makes this one extraordinary,” said Rana Smith, Chimp Haven President and CEO. “For thirty years, the community’s support has helped us give hundreds of chimpanzees the retirement they deserve. We can’t wait to celebrate that legacy with visitors and share what their compassion makes possible.”
What to Expect on October 18
On one of only two public access days each year, guests of all ages will have a rare chance to:
Observe chimpanzees in expansive, naturalistic habitats during their most active hours
Meet the experts—caregivers and veterinary staff—who provide specialized daily care
Learn about the chimpanzee residents who now call the sanctuary home after retirement from biomedical research
Join a special proclamation moment recognizing “Chimp Haven Day” during the morning program
Event Details
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Tickets: Available online only at chimphaven.org/events (tickets are limited and Discovery Days frequently sell out – advance purchase is required)
Pricing: $20 adults (13+), $10 children (5–12), free for children 4 and under
Location: Chimp Haven, Keithville, Louisiana (exact directions provided with ticket confirmation)
More Ways to Celebrate
Can’t make this Discovery Day? Additional opportunities to experience the sanctuary include private and VIP tours (by appointment; age 7+) and a virtual tour at chimphaven.org/visit/digital-tour. Details and availability at chimphaven.org/visit.
About Chimp Haven
Chimp Haven, the national chimpanzee sanctuary, is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that serves as a refuge for chimpanzees, most of whom were retired from biomedical research. Located on 200 acres of rich, forested land near Shreveport, Louisiana, the sanctuary is home to more than 300 chimpanzees who are able to live out the rest of their lives in comfortable retirement. The sanctuary is dedicated to meeting the needs of its chimps and includes a wide range of dynamic habitats, including multiple acres of natural forests for them to explore. Learn more at chimphaven.org.