Support the zoo's conservation efforts with a night of fine dining and animal-approved activities.
Work up your appetite and support a worthy cause with ZooFari: Bite Night at the Smithsonian National Zoo!
This event, sponsored by GEICO, will benefit the zoo's efforts in saving endangered species and allow guests to experience the zoo after-hours. Guests can visit the various animal houses, enjoy complimentary food, and experience live entertainment, all at the zoo!
Courtesy of Smithsonian National Zoo
As one of the biggest tasting events in D.C., this gala is a must. The soiree will include complimentary food from dozens of D.C. restaurants, as well as beer, wine, and soda. Guests can sample wares from some of the District's most popular spots, like Hank's Oyster Bar, matchbox vintage pizza bistro, and Georgetown Cupcake. VIP ticket-holders will receive the red-carpet treatment with an exclusive food and drink menu. Guests can sample from places like Mastro's Steakhouse and Chicken + Whiskey, along with swanky bites from Nicecream and Peregrine Espresso. Don't forget to pair your meal with a nice glass of wine or craft beer! View the full menu here.
Guests will also be able to explore the zoo after-hours. Visit the Small Mammal House, the Great Apes, or if you're VIP, the Great Cats! Enjoy live entertainment and bid in a silent auction for a chance to win prizes and giveaways. It's a great way to support the National Zoo and experience a night out in D.C.!
Moke the baby gorilla (awwww), courtesy of Smithsonian National Zoo
Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ) members can get discounted tickets. Through March 13, members can get the early bird rate of $160, and after that, the regular amount of $175. Non-members pay $225 starting on March 14. For VIP options, guests can choose from four different event packages that include multiple tickets, a VIP lounge, an exclusive menu, special parking, and more. The Bronze package starts at $1,000 and includes two tickets. Reserve yours here.
How to Get There:
The Metro is an easy, convenient way to get to the zoo. The Red Line stops at Cleveland Park Station and Woodley Park-Zoo Station, and from there, the zoo's only a 10-minute walk away. The Big Bus Tours will also be offering free rides starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Woodley-Park stop.
For driving, guests can access the zoo through the Connecticut Avenue gate starting at 4 p.m. All guests are required to have parking permits. They can be bought alongside general admission and are already included in VIP packages. The permits need to be visible on the car's dashboard, as visitors without a permit cannot access the event. You can find more information here.
Courtesy of Smithsonian National Zoo
This adult-only event will happen rain or shine and takes place Thursday, May 16, 2019, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the National Zoo. For more information, visit the zoo's website or contact them at 202-633-3045.
Will you be attending ZooFari: Bite Night? Let us know in the comments below.