Zoofari
2025 Silent Auction is live!
Get ready to explore a unique selection of exclusive items and experiences during the 2025 Zoofari Silent Auction! From behind-the-scenes experiences to unique local treasures, there's something for everyone.
Ready to bid? Click the button below to sign up and get bidding.
*Auction closes at 8pm on Thursday, June 26. You do not need to be present at Zoofari to win.
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Zoofari 2025
Thursday, June 26 | 5 - 9 pm
Unleash your wild side for this special 21+ expedition, featuring cuisine from around the world, animal and zookeeper meet and greets, adult beverages, and exclusive zoo experiences. With the entire zoo available to explore, bring a friend or two to experience the magic of the natural world!
What to expect...
Let your inner explorer come to life as you:
- Indulge in delectable global cuisine and mouthwatering desserts throughout the zoo, crafted by Vespa Catering (the folks behind Maribella Ristorante, R Wine Bar, and Brix Wine Bar).
- Experience the thrill of feeding majestic reticulated giraffes up close.
- Gain fascinating animal insights from our Animal Care and Education experts.
- Meet and mingle with our adorable farm and ambassador animals.
- Discover fascinating marine life through an interactive experience with horseshoe crabs.
- Tour our veterinary clinic and check out the inner workings of our animal care facilities.
- Learn about all the exciting new developments right here at YOUR Great Plains Zoo!
how will the proceeds be used?
Proceeds from Zoofari will directly support three core programs of the Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium (SFZA): education programs, Zoo & Aquarium for All, and animal care.
- Education Programs: Each year, SFZA's educational programming and outreach engages more than 50,000 learners of all ages through on-site classes, field trips, summer camps, and ZooMobile visits that connect visitors to nature, promote environmental awareness, and bring wildlife experiences directly into the community.
- Animal Care: SFZA's commitment to exceptional animal care requires more than $500,000 annually to fund nutritious diets, veterinary services, medications, vaccines, enrichment activities, training, and more, to ensure the very best lives for our animals.
Global cuisine by vespa catering
Food stations will be located throughout Zoo groundsGet a taste of what to expect...
North American Cuisine at Black Bears
- Smoked salmon with crackers
Japanese Cuisine at Snow Monkeys
- California Rolls
Australian Cuisine at New Guinea Singing Dogs
- Beef sliders with pickled onions
Southwest Chinese Cuisine at Red Pandas
- Pork fried rice
African Cuisine at Meercats
- Chicken kabob with crushed peanut sauce
Desserts
- S'mores cake
- Carrot cake (gluten free)
*Meatless options available at various stations.
Zoofari Memories
Zoofari sponsors
Special Thanks
'King of the Jungle' Presenting Sponsor
'Tall & Majestic' Giraffe Sponsor
'Swift & Strong' Stingray Sponsors
'Distinguished' Penguin Sponsors
'Resilient' Butterfly Sponsors
Event Partners
