What should I wear to the party?

Cocktail Casual is appropriate. Comfortable shoes are recommended to enjoy the entire party. The tastings and entertainment are spread out around the San Diego Zoo grounds.

Are all the food and beverage tastings included in the ticket price?

Yes! The event is all-inclusive. Guests pay one price for admission and enjoy free samples from scores of restaurants, breweries, and wineries. Complimentary soft drinks and water are also available throughout the party. VIP Zones have exclusive vendors just for VIP guests! 

Are children allowed?

No, guests must be 21 or over to attend. Infants, children, and strollers are not permitted. You must present your Valid ID prior to entering the event.

Do I have to be a Zoo member to attend?

No, you don’t need to be a member to purchase a ticket.

Will I get a chance to see Zoo wildlife?

Wildlife encounters will be available on the conservation stage. All guests will also have access to Urban Jungle and Reptile House. VIP guests will have exclusive access to a special wildlife encounter in the VIP lounge located in Wildlife Explorer's Basecamp.

What if I get tired? Are there places to sit?

Tables and chairs are located throughout the party area. There will also be several VIP Lounges that will be open only to VIP ticketholders.

If I use a wheelchair/walker/cane, can I still enjoy the party?

Yes, the party covers an area that is mostly level with some gentle inclines. Non-electric wheelchair rentals will be available at our Rental Shop inside the Zoo until 8:00pm.

What about parking?

Parking is included in the main Zoo lot with the purchase of a Food, Wine, & Brew event ticket. You will receive parking instructions with your event ticket information. Taxis and rideshare drivers are available all evening.

Will the entire Zoo be open the night of the event?

No, only the areas within the party footprint.

Will there be nonalcoholic beverages served?

Yes, sodas, bottled waters, and other non-alcoholic beverages will be available throughout the party.

Are cameras allowed?

Yes! #sdzoofoodwineandbrew

What if it rains or the event is canceled?

The Food, Wine, & Brew team will closely monitor any weather conditions and will determine whether or not the event will be held based on the severity of the weather and safety concerns. In the unlikely event that Food, Wine & Brew is canceled for any reason, please consider your ticket purchase a donation to San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

History

Food, Wine & Brew was started as Kicks for Critters in 1980 by San Diego Chargers placekicker Rolf Benirschke to fundraise in support of the San Diego Zoo’s conservation efforts. Since its origin, this soiree has taken on several names, including Celebration for the Critters, San Diego Food & Wine Celebration, and now San Diego Zoo Food, Wine & Brew, which best describes what guests can expect to experience when they join the excitement and help San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance create a world where all life thrives. 

What items are prohibited or restricted at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park?

Items not permitted include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Food Trays 
• Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes and marijuana. We are a smoke-free environment
• Outside Alcohol and illegal substances
• Weapons of any kind, including replicas and toys
• Disruptive items such as drones, laser pointers, noise makers, and sporting equipment
• Any transportation device not otherwise approved as a mobility device per SDZWA’s ADA guidelines
• Inappropriate or offensive attire. Proper attire, including shoes and shirts must be worn at all times
• Animals other than trained service animals
• Coolers of any kind unless needed for ADA purposes
• Glass bottles or containers
• Costume masks or costume/clothing deemed by SDZWA management that too closely resembles an employee uniform
• Professional photographers with professional cameras or recording equipment, who are visiting the San Diego Zoo and/or Safari Park with the intent to take photographs or recordings of people, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance properties, or icons for professional purposes. Permission must be requested in advance and prior arrangements must be made with the appropriate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance representatives. Permission for any recordings or broadcasts on the premises are within the sole discretion of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

This information is subject to change without notice.