Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D to Launch with L.A. Zoo’s Party Animals

Nintendo has announced that the launch of the upcoming 3DS game Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D will be celebrated with an event at the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Please feel free to think up of your own puns involving monkeying around, going bananas, and whatever else sounds a-peeling.

The event will be held over the Memorial Day weekend from May 24th, 2013 to May 27th, 2013. Visitors can enjoy an interactive experience at the Campo Gorilla Reserve, a chance to play the game at various demo stations, giveaways, and other family-friendly activities.

Scott Moffitt, executive vice president of Sales & Marketing at Nintendo of America, said that fans "...will be get a chance to spend time with Donkey Kong and some of his friends from the animal kingdom at the L.A. Zoo this Memorial Day weekend. They'll be able to experience a fun day with Nintendo at the zoo and play Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D."

Visitors will be able to feed gorillas from cardboard barrels that are inspired by the Donkey Kong series' infamous in-game barrels. And while they can feed these majestic animals, they will sadly not be able to take pictures with them. But for those who want to slap some pics of themselves with a gorilla on Instagram, a costumed Donkey Kong character will be roaming the zoo for photo ops.

Jon R. Lewis, director of the L.A. Zoo, said, "Our gorillas have never had a visit from a celebrity of Donkey Kong's stature. All the planned activities for the weekend fit perfectly in line with the family-friendly environment of the zoo, as well as bring awareness to the animals in the gorilla reserve."

The game itself will be released on May 24th, 2013. What do you think about this promotional event? If you're in the L.A. area, would you go down to visit the gorillas at 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA, 90027? Let us know in the comments below!