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. 

Are children allowed?

No, guests must be 21 or over to attend. Infants, children, and strollers are not permitted. 

Do I have to be a Zoo member to attend?

No, you don’t need to be a member to purchase a ticket. There are no member discounts for the event.

Will I get a chance to see Zoo wildlife?

As a VIP Attendee, there will be wildlife presentations in various VIP lounges throughout the night.

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. You must bring your own wheelchair as Front Street Rentals will NOT be open during Celebration.

What about parking?

Parking is free in the main Zoo lot. 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, several beverage vendors will feature sodas, bottled waters, and other non-alcoholic beverages will be available throughout the party.

Are cameras allowed?

Yes! #sdzoocelebration

What is San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance doing to protect team members, guests, and wildlife during the COVID-19 pandemic?

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the safety of our guests, team members, and wildlife are, and always will be, our highest priority. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park follow the guidance set forth by health authorities, including the CDC, along with requirements of the state of California and San Diego County.

Notwithstanding our efforts, an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present; we cannot guarantee you will not be exposed during your visit. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease and guests should evaluate their risk in determining whether to visit. Attendees, partners, vendors, entertainment, volunteers, and staff participating in Food, Wine & Brew Celebration acknowledge the contagious nature of COVID-19 and voluntarily assume the risk that they may be exposed to or infected by COVID-19.

Due to COVID-19, limitations, restrictions, and changes to event operating protocols and benefits may apply. Date and time of operation, attraction and service availability may vary and are subject to change without notice, subject to capacity and cancellation.

What if it rains or the event is canceled due to COVID-19?

If it rains, the event will not be held. In the unlikely event that Food, Wine & Brew Celebration is canceled for any reason, please consider your ticket purchase a donation to San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

History

Celebration was started as Kicks for Critters in 1980 by San Diego Chargers place-kicker Rolf Benirschke to raise money to support the San Diego Zoo’s conservation research efforts. Since that time it has taken on several names, including Celebration for the Critters, San Diego Food & Wine Celebration, and now the San Diego Zoo Food, Wine & Brew Celebration, which best describes what guests can expect to experience when they join the party, to help San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance work toward a world where all life thrives.