Dr. Jane Goodall, a United Nations messenger of peace and founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, will speak at the Los Angeles Zoo in celebration of the United Nations International Day of Peace on Sunday, Sept. 23, at 2 p.m.

The Jane Goodall Institute’s Roots & Shoots youth program will fly the signature giant peace dove puppet. (photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Zoo)

On this day, young members of Roots & Shoots, the institute’s global environmental and humanitarian youth program, will participate in the symbolic flying of the program’s signature giant peace dove puppet, a globally known symbol for peace.

The celebration will also include demonstrations by area Root & Shoots groups, and a performance by award-winning duo Andy & Renee.

Due to overwhelming demand,  Goodall’s lecture is sold out, but can still be viewed remotely on large video screens. All the day’s programming is included in the purchase of zoo admission.

“Each year we take the time to celebrate all that is free and noble in the human spirit,” Goodall said. “And we celebrate all that so many people have done throughout the year and will do next year to create a better world. With the peace doves we remind everyone of the truth they sometimes forget – that peace is possible.”

The U.N. International Day of Peace at the zoo is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission to the zoo is $21 for general admission (ages 13 to 61), $18 for seniors and $16 for children. No ticket is required for children under 2. Admission for Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association members is free.

The Los Angeles Zoo is located at 5333 Zoo Drive. For information and tickets, visit lazoo.org.