There are few ways to improve upon the already incredible world-famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park, perhaps the best known of all San Diego attractions. But adding food, wine and beers to the mix is certainly a start!
The San Diego’s Zoo Annual Food, Wine & Brew Celebration invites guests into the zoo after hours for a truly unique experience. Alongside the wildlife residents and live music are incredible food and drink vendors that highlight some of the best restaurants, wineries, and breweries across Southern California.
Nightime at Entrance to the San Diego Zoo
When is the Food, Wine & Brew Event in 2025?
If you’ve been to the event last year, you’ll probably remember that it was held in the fall, or on September 21st, 2024 to be exact.
This year the event has been moved up to the spring time! The one night event is scheduled for May 23rd, 2025 starting at 6:30pm for VIP ticket holders and 7:30pm for general admission access.
My Thoughts About the Event
I attended last year with my wife, mom in her 80s and adult niece and her husband in their 20s. I won’t share my wife’s age here as she might get mad at me, but I think it’s fair to say that the event is great for people from their 20s to their 80s!
There is great food and drinks, all included as part of your admission, and all while at the zoo! What was really unique and magical is that the event is held at night, which is very rare for the zoo. 2024 was the first time I’d attended and this quickly has become one of my new favorite, yearly events in San Diego!
A Local Tip – What I Will Do Different in 2025
The one thing I will do differently in years to come is getting the VIP passes rather than the general admission tickets. Now these do cost a little more so if the general admission is where you feel comfortable, I’d say go for it! For us though, the 2024 experience felt a bit short!
With a VIP pass you not only will get extra time, you also get places to hang out and relax if you don't want to be walking around the entire time. VIP tickets grant access to three additional lounges, each with their own food and drink vendors, plus VIP-only bathrooms!
Zebra at Night During the Food, Wine and Brew at the San Diego Zoo
A Night for Conservation
While food and drinks are the highlight of the event, they’re not the only reason to come out and support the zoo.
You can also feel good about your purchase, as ticket sales benefit the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the conservation organization behind both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido.
Outside the Food, Wine and Brew at the San Diego Zoo
Tickets
VIP and General Admission tickets for the 2025 event are still available, but going fast.
Remember that this is a charity event and huge fundraiser for the zoo going to the conservation and preservation of the animals. So with your admission you’ll be supporting a very good cause!
Ticket prices per person for the Food, Wine & Brew 2025 are listed below.
- General Admission: $179
- VIP Experience: $299
It is worth noting that the ticket prices are ultimately considered a donation, so on the slight chance that the event is rained out, the prices paid are non-refundable and will go to support the zoo. Just know that the weather is usually mild and beautiful during May evenings so this is very unlikely.
A Good Cause!
Dress cocktail casual and wear comfy shoes for walking. Enjoy the event while supporting the zoo’s conservation efforts—fun for a great cause!