First Responder Appreciation Day

They answer the call when we need them most—now it’s our turn to say thanks!

Join us on Saturday, April 12th for AWCC’s First Responder Appreciation Day—a wild day of heroic recognition and animal fun at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. In partnership with the Anchorage Police Department and Anchorage Cops for Community, humans and animals alike are honoring Alaska’s first responders at AWCC with a mix of meet-and-greets, emergency vehicles, family fun, free admission for first responders, and of course wildlife experiences!

We’re celebrating police, state troopers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, 911 dispatchers, chaplains, ski patrol, and search & rescue teams—basically, anyone who keeps our communities safe (and runs toward danger instead of away from it).

What’s in Store?

• Meet & Greets: Shake hands with Alaska’s everyday heroes.
• Emergency Vehicles: Climb inside the rigs that keep us safe.
• Wildlife Fun: Watch our foxes leap, our wolves prowl, and marvel at our mighty moose! With over 120 animals across 16 different species, you’re sure to say hello to some of Alaska’s most beautiful wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Food Trucks: Because even superheroes need snacks.
• Family Fun: Kid-friendly activities, photo ops, and more!

A Little Extra Support: First responders get FREE admission—because saving lives is hard work. Both sworn and unsworn positions get in free! Please bring your badge or work ID. $3 from all other admissions goes to Anchorage Cops for Community; helping strengthen the bond between law enforcement and our whole community.

So come show your appreciation, enjoy a wild day with AWCC’s incredible animals, and say THANK YOU to the people who keep us safe!