On August 26, 800 supporters donned sparkly and shiny outfits for the annual Zoofari Ball in celebration of the Santa Barbara Zoo’s 60th anniversary. The wildly popular, grand fundraiser raised about $650,000 for the Zoo’s operations. Several months of work by Tyler Speier Events, the Zoo’s Megan Nuss, and a 50+ member event committee created this extravaganza.
Upon arrival, guests were offered a sparkling beverage with a disco ball swizzle stick to sip as they strolled the walkway to the scenic hilltop for a delightful two-hour reception. Gourmet food stations lined the perimeter, while silent auction items beckoned in the center. For dinner, guests adjourned a bit higher up, where they were seated al fresco.
With a seventies disco-inspired Sparkle & Shine theme, tables were covered with sparkly linens and topped with table numbers sporting animal silhouettes. In a nod to the Zoo’s work with monarch butterfly conservation, potted trees embedded with butterfly silhouettes were positioned among the tables. There was a tasty buffet dinner, a short program, and dancing to music by The Collective Music Group.