LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Zoo will host its annual “Zoofari” fundraising gala to benefit animal care and conservation education. This year’s event will be themed as “Red PANDAmonium” in honor of the zoo’s new red panda, Sundara.

The gala will be at the zoo on Friday, June 7, 2024, drawing community leaders and zoo advocates.

“We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our Friends board members who annually design and create a night of fanciful, whimsical fun and fundraising at the Zoo. We are fortunate to have so many in the community join us in honoring the work of our team and their commitment to species conservation and education,” said zoo Director Dan Maloney.

In a news release, the zoo shared its Zoofari attracts over 400 attendees and that tickets would sell quickly. The gala includes creative cocktails, hors d’ouevres, live music, a silent auction, a bourbon pull, a performance by River Lotus Lion Dance and more. Guests attending the full event program also experience exclusive animal encounters, a cocktail reception, live auction, a three-course meal and select lanterns from the Wild Lights lantern festival.

The zoo encouraged partygoers to get creative with their black-tie attire to fit the “Red PANDAmonium” theme. It also suggested animal print or floral dresses, tuxes and ties as suitable backups. In addition, the zoo recommended comfortable shoes to get around to different parts of the zoo.

The event will raise funds to support the renovation of the MetaZoo Discovery Center and Animal Ambassador Program. According to the zoo, the project helps foster connections between people, animals and the planet.

Zoofari will begin at 6 p.m. and continue until 11 p.m. A late-night ticket option is also available with entry at 8:30 p.m. Visit the Louisville Zoo website for tickets. All guests must be 21 years of age or older.