The Central Florida’s Zoo’s most popular fundraiser returns next month when Brews Around the Zoo beckons beer lovers to drink up and get wild. On Saturday, April 11 from 6-10pm, more than 30 different beers will be on tap to sample at 15 beer stations located around the zoo. This event raises over $40,000 for the zoo each year and is attended by more than 1,500 people.
Food & Drink
This year’s Brews Around the Zoo will feature beer from all over the US, including several from the Sunshine State at a the Brewed Local station, a new offering this year.
In addition, there will be 20 wine and food stations, with several local restaurants participating, including Cooper’s Hawk Winery, Seasons 52 and Stonewood Grill and Tavern.
Entertainment
This year's Brews will feature four different entertainment zones, including a main stage with a blues and southern rock band playing all night. There will also be 2 bands in the back (one near the rhino exhibit and one near the herpetarium), as well as a DJ in the splash park.
Tickets
Tickets, which are now available online, are $40 each and include unlimited pours and bites throughout the event.
For those who might like more substantial sips, there will be a special cup available for $8 or two for $15. This souvenir cup will give you bigger pours at all of the stations.
** Tickets will be $50 at the gate (if available) but this event will likely sell out by April 1**
Beer Pairing Dinner
Enjoy a four-course feast served with a Tampa Bay Brewing Co. pairing at a pre-event beer dinner from 5pm – 7:30pm, a new feature of Brews Around the Zoo this year. Tickets are $80 and include access to Brews Around the Zoo immediately following the dinner.
Overnight and Shuttle Packages
The Zoo has partnered with two local hotels and a taxi service to offer overnight packages. Here are the details:
Hampton Inn & Suites
Lake Mary at Colonial TownPark
Rooms starting at $109* and include shuttle services to and from the event and hot breakfast Sunday morning!
Call 407-995-9000 ext 707 for shuttle details and to make a reservation at the special rate.
Hilton Garden Inn
Lake Mary
Rooms starting at $99* and include shuttle services to and from the event and hot breakfast Sunday morning!
Call 407-531-9900 for shuttle details and to make a reservation at the special rate.
Primo Taxi
Prearrange your transportation
$10 dollars for the first 5 miles and $1 per mile after that
Call 386-262-6476 for details and to make arrangements
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes. The event spans nearly the entire the zoo, which means the crowds can spread out but you’ll do a lot of walking.
Buy the souvenir big pour cup. It’s totally worth it.
Go with a big group of friends and make a night of it. This is a super fun event to attend with multiple couples.
This is a 21+ event and attendees are encouraged to designate a sober driver, take advantage of the hotel/shuttle package, rent a party bus or use Uber.
