Forest Park Zoo’s Annual Brew at the Zoo Returns Aug. 1

SPRINGFIELD — The Zoo in Forest Park’s eighth annual Brew at the Zoo, presented by PeoplesBank, returns Saturday, Aug. 1 from 1:30 to 5 p.m.

Brew at the Zoo is an adults-only event and the Zoo’s largest fundraiser, which raises critical funds to support the daily care of its animals as well as the award-winning wildlife education programs the Zoo delivers within the community.

The event features beer samples from more than 20 breweries, three food trucks and two dessert vendors, live music from Stillwater Band, a raffle, and the opportunity to explore the Zoo and visit its more than 200 animal residents.

“With the combination of local craft beer, live entertainment, and unforgettable animal experiences, it’s no surprise Brew at the Zoo has become one of our community’s favorite summer traditions,” said Gabry Tyson, assistant executive director at the Zoo in Forest Park.

A limited number of VIP tickets are available and include exclusive early access from noon to 1:30 p.m.; interactive animal encounters with birds, reptiles, and small mammals; and keeper talks with members of the Zoo’s animal care and education teams before general admission begins.

Also returning is the popular Homebrew Competition, where attendees vote for their favorite home-crafted beer. Husband-and-wife team Nick and Maddy Bednaz, owners of StrongHaus Brewing, have participated in the homebrew competition for more than five years.

“Brew at the Zoo is one of our favorite beer events. The atmosphere is always fun and supportive, from sharing brewing tips with fellow homebrewers to getting feedback and chatting with the attendees,” the couple said. “Brew at the Zoo is guaranteed to be a great event. And who wouldn’t love drinking a beer while petting some animals?”

The Zoo will be closed to the public on Aug. 1 for this age 21+ ticketed event. Advance tickets are required, and all guests must present a valid ID at the door. For a complete list of participating breweries or to purchase tickets, visit www.forestparkzoo.org/brew.