'Wine Safari' returns to Forest Park Zoo with global tastings and animal encounters

Yahoo

20-05-2025

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Zoo in Forest Park is inviting guests on a one-of-a-kind adventure that pairs global wines with wildlife education at its annual 'Wine Safari' event.
Fawn rescued from Springfield's Forest Park construction area
The popular fundraising event, set for Saturday, May 31, from 2 to 6 p.m., offers adults a chance to sip wine from around the world while meeting animals native to those regions. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with animals and hear directly from the zoo's animal care and education teams during scheduled keeper talks.
'How often do you get to drink wine for a good cause?' said Gabry Tyson, assistant executive director at The Zoo in Forest Park. 'Wine Safari is a unique way to support our animals' care, as many cannot survive in the wild for reasons related to injury, illness, permanent disability, or habituation to humans.'
The admission ticket includes wine samples served throughout the event (while supplies last), a reusable wine glass provided by MGM Springfield, and food from Jersey Mike's Longmeadow. All attendees must be 21 or older and present a valid ID at the entrance.
The Zoo will remain open to the public for regular admission from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 31, but will close early at 1 p.m. to allow staff time to prepare for the event.
Tickets must be purchased in advance through the zoo's website, and availability is limited.
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.
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