Cincinnati Zoo Zoofari is the largest annual fundraising event at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, attracting over 2,500 guests each year. This premier event raises critical funds to support the care of the zoo’s diverse animal and plant species, groundbreaking conservation efforts, and impactful educational outreach programs.
Zoofari 2023: Moonlit Mountains
Date: September 22, 2023
Theme: Celebrating the new habitats, Sea Otter Coast and Bear Ridge, opening in 2024
Zoofari 2023 promises to be an unforgettable evening, with guests invited to explore the zoo under the enchanting glow of the moon. The event will feature a variety of exciting elements, including:
- Dinner-by-the-bite Samples from Local Restaurants: Attendees can savor delectable bites from some of Cincinnati’s most renowned eateries, showcasing the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
- Creative Cocktails: Signature cocktails and libations will be available to complement the evening’s festivities.
- Entertainment: Live music, performances, and other engaging entertainment will keep guests captivated throughout the night.
- Themed Sections of the Zoo: Guests will have the opportunity to explore the zoo’s various habitats and exhibits, each with its own unique theme and ambiance.
- Award-winning Gardens: The Cincinnati Zoo’s renowned botanical gardens will be on full display, providing a stunning backdrop for the event.
Tickets for Zoofari 2023 are limited, with a 6pm early entry option available for those who want to maximize their experience.
Zoofari 2024: Elephant Trek
Theme: Celebrating the new Elephant Trek habitat
In 2024, the Cincinnati Zoo Zoofari will shift its focus to the highly anticipated Elephant Trek habitat, which is set to open that year. Guests can expect an array of exciting features, including:
- Food Sampling from Local Restaurants: Attendees will have the opportunity to savor delectable bites from some of Cincinnati’s most renowned eateries.
- Signature Cocktails and Libations: Unique and creative cocktails will be available to enhance the evening’s festivities.
- Exclusive Animal Experiences: Guests may have the chance to participate in special animal encounters and behind-the-scenes experiences.
- Henna by Rachana’s Designs: Attendees can indulge in the art of henna, adding a touch of cultural flair to the event.
- Live Entertainment: A variety of live performances and music will keep the energy high throughout the night.
- Silent Disco: A unique and immersive dance experience, where guests can groove to their own personal soundtrack.
Details for Zoofari 2024 are still to be announced, but it’s sure to be an event that celebrates the zoo’s newest and most impressive habitat.
Zoofari 2022: Evening in the Everglades
Date: September 23, 2022
Theme: Celebrating Cincinnati Zoo Director Thane Maynard’s 45th anniversary
The 2022 Cincinnati Zoo Zoofari event, “Evening in the Everglades,” was a special celebration honoring the 45th anniversary of Cincinnati Zoo Director Thane Maynard’s tenure. Guests were treated to:
- Dinner-by-the-bite Samples from Local Restaurants: Attendees savored delectable bites from some of the city’s top eateries.
- Creative Cocktails: Signature cocktails and libations were available to complement the evening’s festivities.
- Entertainment: Live music, performances, and other engaging entertainment kept guests captivated throughout the night.
- Themed Sections of the Zoo: Guests explored the zoo’s various habitats and exhibits, each with its own unique Everglades-inspired theme and ambiance.
- Raffle for a Fiona-themed Diamond Pendant: One lucky attendee had the chance to win a stunning diamond pendant featuring the zoo’s beloved hippopotamus, Fiona.
Tickets for Zoofari 2022 were limited, allowing for an intimate and exclusive experience for those in attendance.
General Information
Time: 7pm-midnight (6pm early entry option available)
Dress Code: Comfortable shoes recommended; animal prints and themed attire encouraged
Presenting Sponsors: Western & Southern Financial Group and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc.
Cincinnati Zoo Zoofari is a must-attend event for any zoo enthusiast or supporter of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. With its unique themes, delectable cuisine, creative cocktails, and immersive experiences, the event offers a truly unforgettable evening under the stars, all while supporting the vital work of the zoo.