LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Another fan favorite won't take place this year because of the coronavirus. 

The Louisville Zoo's "Brew at the Zoo and Wine, Too!" scheduled for August 29, 2020, is officially canceled. More than 4,000 people come out to the Zoo each year to enjoy a night of adult beverages and socializing with the animals.

“Protecting the health of Zoo guests, volunteers, staff, and the animals is the top priority. Due to the nature of the event, it was determined that it would be best to cancel for this year,” said Friends of the Louisville Zoo Board President, Nancy Loucks. “We regret that our 4,000+ event guests will not gather this year to raise funds to support a great community resource, however, we are looking forward to 2021! We thank event attendees, volunteers, vendors, and sponsors for their loyal support of Brew at the Zoo & Wine, Too! over the years, and look forward to seeing everyone back next year!”

The Friends of the Louisville Zoo continue to look for smaller ways to help raise money for the Zoo saying, “The need is still there. The Zoo is a tremendous asset for our city, state, and region and we feel passionately that it should remain one for generations to come."

The Zoo closed to the public on March 17 and reopened to members on June 12. General admission visitors are being welcomed back on July 4. The Zoo has worked to provide for the animals and work on safety protocols which would allow them to welcome back guests during the pandemic. The staff is wearing masks and cleaning high-touch areas often and practicing social distancing. Guests are urged to wear masks.

During this initial reopening phase, the Zoo's indoor attractions, including the carousel, will stay closed.