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. 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. There are no member discounts for the event.

Will I get a chance to see Zoo wildlife?

New this year, wildlife encounters will be available on the conservation stage. General Admission guests will also have access to Urban Jungle and Reptile House. VIP guests will have exclusive access to the upper level of cool critters by way of the VIP lounge located in 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. 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 if it rains or the event is canceled?

If it rains, the event will not be held. 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
• Alcohol and illegal substances
• Weapons of any kind to include 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 larger than 12” by 12”
• 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.