Lions and tigers … and you

Get ready for a wild day of fun with your family, friends, and colleagues when Fall Fest moves to the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.

It's a new location—and a whole new experience—for Johns Hopkins' annual staff appreciation event, which will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12.

"Moving Fall Fest from Johns Hopkins at Eastern to the zoo significantly enhances the event and demonstrates our deep appreciation of the amazing people who work at Johns Hopkins," says Heidi Conway, vice president for human resources.

Another substantial change is that Fall Fest moves from a Friday night to a Saturday to allow more employees to bring their families along for the fun.

There will be food, face painting, and full access to the entire zoo. "We are organizing a few other activities to enrich the day, but you'll have to attend to find out what's planned," says April Floyd, senior director of Benefits and Worklife.

Fall Fest typically draws about 2,000 attendees, but planners of this year's event say they hope to double the number this year. Although it's a free event, registration will be required. Employees may bring a maximum of four guests. Registration will open in early August. Further details are to come.