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The Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day of the year except Christmas. During the summer, the zoo’s hours are extended to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

This month, Abalaye, an African dance and drum troupe, will perform weekends at various locations within the zoo. The zoo will celebrate Mexican Independence Day from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 4 with ethnic food, mariachi music and pinata-building workshops.

Last spring, two baby chimps were born at the zoo. The first chimp was named Jean, after longtime zoo benefactor Jeanette Vachon. The zoo is currently conducting a “Name the Baby Chimp� contest for the second one. Entries will be accepted until 5 p.m. Aug. 22.

* The zoo’s Sundown Safari program lets families camp out overnight at the zoo where they can fall asleep to the sound of lions roaring. Family members participate in evening and early-morning tours plus have dinner and breakfast served by camp staff. Sundown Safaris are scheduled for this weekend, Aug. 28, Sept. 18 and Sept. 25. $75 adults, $50 children 3-12, kids younger than 3 are free. (323) 644-4253.

* You could have your next party, wedding or business meeting at the zoo. The zoo rents out spaces for private events during the evening hours after the public leaves. Groups from 20 to 1,800 people can be accommodated. The zoo offers free parking, customized menu and event planning, plus animal activities and mini-zoos. (323) 644-4788.

* Admission to the zoo is $8.25 adults, $3.25 children. But you can become a zoo member and enjoy unlimited admission for one year, plus free admission to 120 reciprocating zoos nationwide, subscriptions to the zoo magazine and newsletter and discounts on lectures and programs. One-year memberships start at $20.