Saturday, April 20, 2024

The Abilene Zoological Society is excited to announce the annual Zoobilation Gala – Tropical Nights presented by VistaCrest Financial | Raymond James will be held on Saturday, April 20th, at Abilene Zoo. Guests will enjoy a lush red carpet experience, get nose-to-nose during an animal encounter, and be immersed in a tropical oasis while relishing savory bites and indulgent cocktails. A live program highlighting Caribbean Cove’s transformation with new tropical habitats and endangered species will culminate in a fundraising raffle to support this critical project. As the sun sets, guests can cut loose with live music and dancing under the stars.

All proceeds from the evening will support the renovation of the Caribbean Cove exhibit, which has long been a hub for educating visitors about the wonders of tropical habitats and the animals that inhabit them. The project includes enlarging habitats by over 200% as well as introducing mixed-species habitats that will feature new species to Abilene. Renovated and new warm-holdings will ensure each animal is comfortable and healthy during the cold months as well as create year-round viewing opportunities for guests. A new educational space, seating area, and ADA-accessible restrooms will be just steps away from the very popular Turtle Cove play area. This project will ensure the highest standards of animal care are met as well as provide new and surprising experiences for the thousands of school children and visitors to Abilene Zoo each year. 

“When we embark on big projects, we do so because we want to keep growing for our community, and the community’s support is vital to that effort,” stated Janelle Benham, Abilene Zoological Society Vice President. “Caribbean Cove is already such a beloved section of our Zoo, but the renovation is going to enrich the experience even more!”

The Evening

Zoobilation Gala – Tropical Nights begins at 6:00 p.m. with custom cocktails, savory hors d’oeuvres, a champagne wall, themed photo ops, animal encounters, and a wine pull.

At 7:15 p.m., guests will enjoy an elegant dinner under twinkling lights with a live program culminating in a fundraising raffle.

As the sun sets, the band will take center stage for a night of dancing under the stars. 

Tropical-themed black-tie attire is recommended.

Individual tickets and table sponsorships are on sale now. For more information, visit: abilenezoo.org/zoobilation.

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