PRESS ROOM

ROYAL OAK, Mich., 

Sunset at the Zoo is always metro-Detroit’s wildest party of the year —and this year, the guests get to host!

The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) has re-imagined this popular and vitally important fundraising event for 2020.

With behind-the-scenes stories about animal care, wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability, Sunset for the Zoo: Bringing the Mission Home will take guests on an exciting and memorable journey.

Premiering on September 17, this hour-long event will offer a fascinating look at the many ways the Detroit Zoological Society celebrates and saves wildlife.

This year especially, Sunset also has a serious purpose. Like so many community organizations, the DZS has been terribly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Revenues that are normally generated by operations were cut off during the statewide shutdown and have been greatly reduced since the Zoo’s reopening in June.

Unlike many museums and businesses, though, the Zoo could not send home its entire workforce and lock the gates.  Instead, daily (and nightly) care for more than 2,400 endangered animals has continued without interruption.

In these extraordinary times, the Detroit Zoological Society is counting on the community to sustain its mission. The goal of Sunset for the Zoo: Bringing the Mission Home is to raise $500,000 through charitable giving and a silent auction offering dozens of “zoonique” items. The auction opens on September 14 at 4 p.m. and will close on September 20 at 4 p.m.

There are several ways to participate in Sunset for the Zoo: Bringing the Mission Home. Starting today, supporters can text “Sunset” to 243-725 or visit SunsetAtTheZoo.org for more information and exciting previews. Either of these methods will take you to the virtual Sunset premiere at 7 p.m. on September 17. The special will also air on the Detroit Zoo’s Facebook page.

For more information, please visit SunsetAtTheZoo.org, text “Sunset” to 243-725 or call (248) 336-5858.