Dallas Zoo To Do 2012 was a roaring good time

Pete and Tanya Foster

The Dallas Zoological Society hosted the 21st Annual Zoo To Do gala, themed Go Big or Go Home, on November 3, 2012 at the Dallas Zoo.

The event was held in in Giants of the Savanna and the Wilds of Africa Plaza sections of the Zoo and featured exquisite food tastings prepared by Honorary Chefs Jim “Sevy” Severson and Dan Landsberg and their team of 26 of Dallas’ top chefs.

The evening began with a VIP cocktail hour hosted by Neiman Marcus and throughout the evening, guests were kept entertained by exciting live and silent auctions, live music and dancing, and casino games.

“Our team of talented chefs and amazing restaurants, paired with the beautiful setting at the Dallas Zoo, make this one of the most unique fund-raising events in Dallas,” said Dallas Zoological Society President and CEO Michael Meadows.

Silent auction items included paintings created by Dallas Zoo occupants

The lions were out to observe the crowd. Who was watching who?

“Zoo To Do is our most important annual event, and it has grown exponentially over the past 21 years," continued Meadows.  "Funds generated through Zoo To Do provide a significant share of the operating funds needed to support the Zoo in a first-class manner, and we are proud of the many improvements to our exhibits, facilities, and education and conservation programs that have been made possible through this event"

Laura and Gina Ginsburg

Zoo To Do’s underlying cause is even more significant than being one of the best parties of the year. The Dallas Zoo is the largest zoological experience in Texas, with a 106-acre park, thousands of animals, and an education department that offers fascinating, fun programs for all ages. It is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.

As expected, female guests took the theme to heart and there were all manner of animal print shoes, jackets, dresses and handbags to be seen. From leopard to cheetah, giraffe to tiger, snake to more snake... no animal print was left unrepresented!

The Dallas Zoo is located at 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway (I-35 at Marsalis) and is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $12 for ages 12 and above, $9 for children ages 3-11 and seniors (age 65 and up), and free for children age 2 and younger and DZS members.

For more information visit www.DallasZoo.com or call (469) 554-7500.