Fast Facts
When: Saturday, September 26, 2009, from 7:30 p.m. to midnight
Where: San Diego Zoo
Beneficiary: San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research
Attendance: 3,000 + guests
What should I wear to the party?
Cocktail casual or safari chic is appropriate. Comfortable shoes are recommended to enjoy the entire party; the food, beverages and entertainment are spread out around the San Diego Zoo grounds.
When does the party start?
5:00 p.m. Champagne with the Critters VIP tickets
6:30 p.m. Early admission tickets
7:30 p.m. General admission ticket
How much are tickets?
General Admission Tickets: $90 per person ($100 after Sept. 11) Admission is at 7:30 p.m.
Early Admission Tickets: $150 per person ($175 after Sept. 11). Includes early admission at 6:30 p.m. with Silent Auction, vendor preview, and complimentary Skyfari rides.
Champagne with the Critters VIP Passes: $300 per person. Be our guest at the pre-Celebration VIP Party at 5 p.m. Enjoy champagne and fine wines, special entertainment, and fabulous to hors dourves from Azul La Jolla the Brigantine Family of Restaurants including Azul La Jolla, the Brigantine, Miguel’s Cantina and Zocalo Grill. Includes all benefits of Early Admission.
Are children allowed?
No. Guests must be 21 to attend. Children, infants and strollers are not permitted.
What about the Skyfari ride?
The Skyfari aerial tram ride is included in the Early admission and Champagne with the Critters VIP ticket price. There is a nominal charge of $4 for General admission ticket holders.
Do I have to be a member of the Zoo to attend?
No, you don’t need to be a member to purchase a ticket. There are no member discounts on tickets.
Can I buy opportunity drawing tickets at the event?
Yes, tickets are $10 each and are available at the Opportunity Drawing table. You can also buy tickets from our roving ticket sellers during the party. You might want to come prepared with return address labels so you can get back to partying quickly!
I want to bid on something in the Silent Auction – how does that work?
Bid stickers must be used to place all bids. You can pick up your bid stickers at the Silent Auction registration table on the Front Plaza or on Reptile Plaza. Please note: once a bid sticker is placed on an item it cannot be removed so please bid carefully. The Silent Auction closes at 10 p.m.
Will I get a chance to see critters?
Absolutely! Joan Embery and her animal friends will be on stage on Flamingo Plaza from 7 – 8:30 p.m. and there will be an Animal Show on Reptile Plaza from 8 – 9:30 p.m.
What is the Critter Casino?
Indulge in casino action for the chance to win some great prizes! Is your game blackjack, craps or roulette? When you win, you can exchange your chips for drawing tickets. Prize details will be posted in the Casino.
What if I get tired? Are there places to sit down?
Tables and chairs are located throughout the party area.
I use a wheelchair/walker/cane, will I be able to enjoy the party?
Yes. The party covers an area that is mostly level with some gentle inclines.
What about parking?
Parking is free in the main Zoo lot. Taxis are available in the area all evening.
Will the entire Zoo be open during the event?
No, only the front areas of the Zoo will open.
Will non-alcoholic beverages be served?
Yes. Several beverage vendors will feature juices and non-alcoholic beverages. Complimentary sodas are available at the cash bar in the Zoo Party Area, as well as Sparkletts bottled water.
Are cameras allowed?
Yes.
What if it rains?
If it rains, the event will not be held. Please consider your ticket purchase a donation.
History
Celebration was started as Kicks for Critters in 1980 by Rolf Benirschke, San Diego Chargers placekicker, to raise money to support the San Diego Zoo’s conservation research efforts.
