Feed a giraffe, grab a drink, name a penguin – it's all at Zoofari

Megan Raposa -

This is a paid piece from the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium.

Simplified: The zoo's annual summer fundraiser is happening next week with opportunities for exclusive, adults-only, after-hours access to the entire campus. Here's what you need to know about Zoofari.

Why it matters

  • Funds raised at Zoofari support the ongoing operations of the zoo including education programs and animal care across the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium (SFZA).
  • Zoofari attendees will be the first to hear some big (and very exciting) announcements about SFZA's future. They'll also have a chance to enjoy globally inspired food, chat with zookeepers, feed giraffes and bid on unique silent auction items including a chance to name the new baby penguin.
  • This year's event also comes after a highly successful Community Appeals Campaign with the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce that raised $2.3 million to support the zoo's future vision to bring the aquarium and butterfly house to the Great Plains Zoo campus.
"We’re really excited about the momentum that we’ve gathered, and we believe the community is behind us as we work toward the finish line," said Denise DePaolo, director of PR and marketing.

Tell me more about Zoofari

This is the only opportunity all summer to gain access to the full zoo campus after-hours, including animal encounters, zookeeper chats and a rare opportunity to tour the veterinary clinic.

  • Attendees will get a chance to mingle with ambassador animals, feed the giraffes and interact with horseshoe crabs.
"You can learn so much and then share that with your kids in future visits, so that’ll enrich those experiences going forward," DePaolo said. "The zoo is not just for kids – it's for everyone."

Oh, and did we mention the menu from Vespa Catering? (The same folks behind Mirabella Ristorante, R Wine Bar and Brix Wine Bar). Here's a look:

  • Smoked salmon with crackers,
  • California rolls,
  • Beef sliders with pickled onions,
  • Pork fried rice,
  • Chicken kabob with crushed peanut sauce,
  • Plus desserts including a s'mores tower and a gluten-free carrot cake.

Tell me more about adults-only zoo events

Can't make it to Zoofari? You can still get a chance to experience the zoo after-hours at upcoming 21+ events with fun themes, live music, activities, food and drink. Here's the rundown:

  • Friday, July 18: Tiki Party theme with music from Too Drunk to Fish
  • Friday, Aug. 15: Ultimate 80s theme with music from Dueling Duo
  • Friday, Sept. 12: Tailgate Party theme with music from Goodroad Band

How can I get Zoofari tickets?

Right here. Tickets include admission, food, one drink ticket, and all of the animal encounters and activities.