Home / Blog / News / Zoo Update with GLAZA Interim President Dawn Petersen-Amend – July 2024

Zoo Update with GLAZA Interim President Dawn Petersen-Amend – July 2024

A cartoonish, brown lizard with a large head and spines along its back straddles a tree branch.
The Boyd’s forest dragon has sharp spines to deter against predators–but its main defense is camouflage. Find this tree-dwelling Australia native in the LAIR on your next visit to the Zoo. Photo by Jamie Pham.

Once again, another school year is complete, and the season of fun and sun is upon us. GLAZA has planned a summer of excitement-filled events at the Zoo to appeal to all ages. We invite you to join us for some (or all!) of our summer celebrations.

The popular Roaring Nights returns to the Zoo on both July 13 and September 14. These 21+ evenings will be ‘80s-themed parties featuring a dance area with DJ Johnny Hawkes, an immersive silent disco, a paint party, and special animal feedings, plus full bars and the best food trucks in L.A. July’s event will feature the band The AstroYachts, and in September you won’t want to miss the ‘80s cover band Flashback Heart Attack. Member admission for each evening is just $20.

August features four Zoo Friday Nights on August 9, 16, 23, and 30. Bring your entire family to explore the Zoo on a beautiful summer evening. Activities will include a family dance party with the GEC Street Team, lawn games, an all-ages photo op, fun cover bands, and food available for purchase from popular food trucks. Member tickets are $15, and each evening will feature a Member Appreciation Station offering a complimentary, eco-friendly sports bottle!

On the evening of Saturday, August 3, we will present Brew at the Zoo: A Sip & Stroll event. This all-adult event will allow guests to sample craft brews, distilled spirits, and creative cocktails and mocktails as they stroll through the Zoo on a warm summer evening. All guests will receive a limited-edition commemorative cup. Member tickets are $65 each. There will also be a VIP option offering early admission, gourmet food, and special animal talks—members may purchase a VIP ticket for $165.

For members who prefer to visit the Zoo during the sunny summer daylight hours, we will celebrate Member Appreciation Month throughout the month of August. The calendar is filled with “buy one, get one free” coupons, an extra 10% discount at the International Marketplace gift shops (Monday–Friday), a chance to win Safari Shuttle tickets (weekends only), and special gifts including tote bags, bandanas, and more. We look forward to saying “thank you” to our much-appreciated members!

Finally, on Sunday, August 11, members will have the opportunity to be the first to experience the Zoo waking up. Visit early (8:30–10 a.m.) for exclusive members-only admission and enjoy the morning sights and sounds. Please check your email as reservations will be required.

However you choose to spend this season of relaxation and renewal, we hope you will include a visit to the Zoo in your plans. Whether you prefer a peaceful, daytime stroll to visit your favorite animals or an action-packed dance party, complete with delicious food truck fare and creative libations, there is a place for you this summer at your L.A. Zoo.

Dawn Petersen-Amend is the Interim President of the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association
Dawn Petersen-Amend, Interim President of the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association