2025 Mayoral election kicks off at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo as animals compete to lead the pack

The campaign trail is heating up once again at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, as a new group of charismatic animal candidates vie for the coveted title of Zoo Mayor! Now in its sixth year, this lighthearted election invites guests to cast their votes for their favorite animal ambassador while supporting the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, research, and fun.

Each vote helps care for the Zoo’s animals and supports vital programs that inspire visitors to protect our planet’s incredible biodiversity. The 2025 race introduces five new contenders with a unique campaign style and plenty of personality:

Fiona the Maned Wolf

Graceful, striking, and confident, Fiona the Maned Wolf believes she’s got exactly what it takes to lead the pack. Known for her poise and independence, Fiona’s campaign emphasizes trust, teamwork, and forward thinking. With her signature flair, she’s promising to be “The Mane You Can Trust.”
Text 2026ZooMayor2 to 71777 to vote for Fiona the Maned Wolf.

Logan the Amazon River Turtle

Slow and steady wins the race! Logan believes that true leadership comes from patience and perspective. With his calm demeanor and long view of progress, Logan plans to “Shell Out Real Solutions” that will make the Zoo a better place for animals and visitors alike.

Text 2026ZooMayor3 to 71777 to vote for Logan the Amazon River Turtle.

Rose the Dexter Cow

Known for her gentle nature and big heart, Rose is determined to “Moo-ve the Zoo in the Right Direction.” She’s a strong advocate for teamwork and sustainability, believing that every pasture thrives when everyone pulls together.
Text 2026ZooMayor4 to 71777 to vote for Rose the Dexter Cow.

See the Message Center below for Connecticut’s top October events — from Hartford Wolf Pack games to concerts across the state — and grab this season’s hottest Connecticut merch!

King the Chinese Goral

Charismatic, confident, and a true crowd favorite, King is ready to take the horns of leadership. This sure-footed contender is climbing to new heights with a campaign built on inclusion, compassion, and courage. Supporters are calling him “The People’s G.O.A.T.” and he’s ready to live up to the title!
Text 2026ZooMayor5 to 71777 to vote for King the Chinese Goral.

Chunk the Tiger Salamander

A true local favorite, Chunk is known for his persistence and personality. This amphibian candidate isn’t afraid to get a little muddy if it means making a difference. He’s running on a platform of connection, promising to be “a Mayor Who Sticks With You.”
Text 2026ZooMayor1 to 71777 to vote for Chunk the Salamander.

“The election for Mayor of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is one of our most beloved traditions,” said Dr. Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “It’s a fun and creative way for guests to engage with our animals while helping to support our mission. Every vote makes an impact, so we encourage everyone to vote early, vote often, and have fun doing it!”

The election will be decided by all tallied text and online votes. The voting begins Monday, October 20th and the polls close at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4th. The public is invited to vote for the candidate of their choice by making a one-dollar donation for each vote via text to the number identified in the candidate profile. Guests can also text 2026ZooMayor to 71777 or visit the webpage to vote at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/OboRmQ?vid=1m8yfw.

The winning Mayor will hold a 12-month term. All donations to the ballot box will support the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, research, and fun. For more information, visiting hours, and other zoo attractions, please visit www.beardsleyzoo.org.

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October events at Fairfield Theatre Company

October is packed with live entertainment at Fairfield Theatre Company and beyond, bringing a mix of music, theater, and seasonal celebrations. From legendary performers and fresh new voices to fundraisers, family shows, and Halloween favorites, there’s something for everyone this month. Whether you’re catching an intimate concert, rocking out with a high-energy band, or getting into the spooky spirit, these upcoming events showcase some of the best performances and community gatherings of the season.

October 2025 calendar of events
October 21 – Pokey Lafarge
October 22 – Clay Street Unit
October 23 – Sam Grisman Project
October 24 – Sicard Hallow
October 24 – The Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary
October 25 – Ashes & Arrows
October 30 – Thriller Thursday

Click here for more information & order tickets.

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AMG Catering and Events in Wilton, Connecticut, is offering a fall series of cooking classes designed to celebrate seasonal flavors and global cuisine. Each class combines hands-on instruction with perfectly paired beverages, from wine and beer to creative cocktails, as participants learn to prepare a variety of savory and sweet dishes. From autumn-inspired comfort foods to festive holiday treats, these classes provide an interactive, fun experience for home cooks of all skill levels. Join AMG this fall to sharpen your culinary skills, explore new flavors, and enjoy delicious meals in a vibrant, social setting. Click here for more information.

October events at PeoplesBank Arena

10/22 – Springfield Thunderbirds vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets
10/24 – Bridgeport Islanders vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets
10/25 – Stevie Nicks, click here to purchase tickets
10/26 – UCONN Women’s Basketball vs Southern Connecticut State
10/28 -UCONN Men Basketball vs Michigan State
10/29 – Charlotte Checkers vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets
10/31 – Lehigh Valley Phantoms vs Hartford Wolf Pack, click here to purchase tickets

Connecticut Merch

Celebrate Connecticut nostalgia with our Vintage Merritt Parkway and Wilbur Cross Parkway collection! Honoring the classic exit numbers, these designs pay tribute to the iconic parkways that connect communities across the state. Explore a variety of items including T-shirts, hoodies, crewnecks, mugs, tote bags, decorative pillows, and blankets, all with free shipping. Perfect for Connecticut residents, collectors, and road trip lovers who want to showcase their state pride. Each piece captures a timeless piece of local history while adding style to your wardrobe or home.

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Gourmet Cookies

Indulge in Keksi gourmet cookies, featuring classic flavors such as chocolate chip and snickerdoodle, as well as new monthly creations. Made with the highest quality ingredients, each bite is a delicious treat. Perfect for any cookie lover!

Movie showtimes at Prospector Theater

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2025 Mayoral election kicks off at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo as animals compete to lead the pack