Zoofari
Zoofari 2026
Thursday, June 25 | 5 - 9 pm
Take a walk on the wild side and explore the Great Plains Zoo campus during this adults-only, after-hours expedition!
Tickets on sale NOW!
how will the proceeds be used?
Proceeds from Zoofari will directly support our core programs of the Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium (SFZA): education programs and world-class animal care.
- Education Programs: Each year, SFZA's educational programming and outreach engages more than 50,000 learners of all ages through on-site classes, field trips, summer camps, and ZooMobile visits that connect visitors to nature, promote environmental awareness, and bring wildlife experiences directly into the community.
- Animal Care: SFZA's commitment to exceptional animal care requires more than $500,000 annually to fund nutritious diets, veterinary services, medications, vaccines, enrichment activities, training, and more, to ensure the very best lives for our animals.
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What to expect...
Let your inner explorer come to life as you:
- Indulge in delectable global cuisine and mouthwatering desserts throughout the zoo, crafted by Vespa Catering (the folks behind Maribella Ristorante, R Wine Bar, and Brix Wine Bar).
- Experience the thrill of feeding majestic reticulated giraffes up close.
- Gain fascinating animal insights from our Animal Care and Education experts.
- Meet and mingle with our adorable farm and ambassador animals.
- Discover fascinating marine life through an interactive experience with horseshoe crabs.
- Tour our veterinary clinic and check out the inner workings of our animal care facilities.
- Learn about all the exciting new developments right here at YOUR Great Plains Zoo!
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Global cuisine by vespa catering
Food stations will be located throughout Zoo groundsFalafel (Egypt)
- Middle Eastern street food made from spiced chickpeas shaped into balls and served with lemon herb tahini sauce.
Hot Honey Chicken Skewers (Modern American)
- Chicken thighs marinated in garlic, ginger, cumin, hot honey, and skewered with onion, pepper, and mushroom.
Peruvian Ceviche (Peru)
- Cod, cilantro, habanero, red onion, and celery fast cured in lime juice, topped with leche de tigre and served with corn chips.
Kofta Kebab (Ancient Persia/North Africa)
- Heavily seasoned ground beef skewers, served on a bed of sumac arugula and red onion.
Aussie Onion Dip (Australia)
- Creamy blend of sour cream and French onion soup.
Cookie sandwiches (dessert)
- Chocolate with peanut butter.
- Lemon with strawberry jam.
*Vegetarian and gluten free options available.
Silent Auction
Zoofari Silent Auction is LIVE!
Bid for a great cause! The Zoofari Silent Auction is now live, featuring unique items and experiences that support the animals and programs of the Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium. Bidding closes June 25 at 8:30 pm.
Silent Auction sneak peak:
- The Bear Necessities - Go behind the scenes and face-to-snout with our burly, loveable bears (with sturdy fencing in between for safety, of course)! Afterwords, kick back and toast to the adventure with a spread of beer, wine, and charcuterie.
- Cuddle Clinic - Go behind the scenes with SFZA's Veterinary Team during a private Teddy Bear Clinic for your child and up to nine friends! The experts who ensure our animals stay healthy will do a check-up on your kids' favorite stuffed animal, teach them about animal health, and show parts of the Zoo's veterinary clinic that are not typically open to the public.
- Plus much more - Explore the full Zoofari Silent Auction to see all available packages, experiences, and one-of-a-kind opportunities!
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Zoofari Memories
Zoofari sponsors
Lion 'King of the Jungle' Presenting Sponsor
'Leader of the Pack' Red Wolf Sponsor
'Tall & Majestic' Giraffe Sponsor
'Swift & Strong' Stingray Sponsors
'Distinguished' Penguin Sponsors
'Resilient' Butterfly Sponsors
Event Partners
