At Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest we take parties pretty seriously, and on this day, we have two occasions to celebrate: Halloween and Jamie’s 36th birthday. Consequently, we went a little wild with the festivities today.

The chimpanzees are lucky to have some really great friends, and today we want to thank three of them in particular for making the day so special. Supporter Jayne Roepke mailed us several boxes full of the most fun and creative enrichment for today’s party (and treated the chimps to some delicious and festive party food!); Lisa Stuverud sponsored today in Jamie’s honor; and volunteer caregiver Stephanie brought some more party decorations, food, and enrichment, including this hand-carved birthday/Halloween pumpkin:

The pumpkin was the star of the show, as you’ll see in the video below. But first, some photos of the party this morning.

Negra with a gift bag:

and with a chunk of the giant pumpkin:

Jody enjoying some cran-pomegranate juice:

and deconstructing one of the cute ghost pinatas that Jayne sent:

Jody also loved the giant pumpkin:

Foxie with the giant pumpkin (are you sensing a theme?):

Burrito taking a brief break from foraging:

Annie drinking some juice:

And if you’re wondering about Jamie, the birthday girl, she thoroughly enjoyed the festivities. Here she is looking cool with a party straw:

foraging for berries:

inspecting some new presents:

and treating herself to a “martini”:

One of the highlights of the day was watching the chimps dig into the pumpkin. They all eventually had their turns at it, but Negra was the first to enjoy the spoils.

If you’re signed up to receive our e-newsletter, you know that we’re holding a competition to see which chimpanzee can get the most Chimpanzee Pals by the end of the year. Wish Jamie a happy 36th birthday by signing up to be her Pal today!

Happy Jamieween, everyone!