Iowa State Fair guests can vote on Blank Park Zoo’s new giraffe calf

DES MOINES, Iowa —

Blank Park Zoo is giving Iowa State Fair attendees an opportunity to choose the name of its next giraffe calf at the Kid Find Headquarters on August 13.

If it is a boy, the calf will be named either Maliki, Norman or Alfie. And if the giraffe is female, the calf will be named Kia, Delila or Juniper.

The voting process will take place near the west end of the Grandstand on each day of the fair. For people unable to attend the fair in-person, they can vote online here.

Along with voting on the giraffe’s name, guests who come to the Kid Find Headquarters can measure up to a baby giraffe, win prizes, and receive deals on zoo tickets and memberships.

“Naming a calf is such a special way for our community to feel connected to this new life,” said Blank Park Zoo President and CEO Anne Shimerdla. “Whether you’re joining us at the Fair or voting from home, we can’t wait to see which name our community chooses for this newest addition to the herd.”

The pregnancy has been streamed live on Facebook since July 31, with more than 450,000 viewers so far.

Voting is free, both in person and online. To plan your visit to Blank Park Zoo, purchase tickets or become a member at this website.