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CINCINNATI – Experience a black-tie event that is actually fun during an evening of elegance, extraordinary style and excitement at the Cincinnati Zoo’s 28^th annual Zoofari: Journey to the Land of Dragons, presented by Great American Insurance Group.  This special event will be held Friday, September 24^th, beginning at 6 p.m.  An ever-changing theme keeps Zoofari – the Zoo’s major fund-raising event – the premier black tie gala of Cincinnati’s social scene.

“For more than 25 years, Zoofari has allowed guests to celebrate the Zoo,” said Thane Maynard, Executive Director at the Cincinnati Zoo. “This signature event supports the Zoo’s goal of “Inspiring every visitor with wildlife every day.” We are excited to invite you to be a part of Cincinnati’s wildest fundraiser in the most unusual gala setting in the city.”

Chaired by Craig and Anne Maier, Journey to the Land of Dragons, promises to be bigger and better than ever. Back by popular demand, guests will take a journey through the Zoo’s Historic Vine Street Village into the Land of the Dragons to celebrate the return of the Komodo dragon to the Cincinnati Zoo. The evening includes unique animal experiences, dinner by the bite from Cincinnati’s finest restaurants, specialty Zoofari cocktails, an amazing silent auction and live music from The Soul Pocket Band.

This year, guests can meet Cincinnati Bengals Linebacker and Conservationist Dhani Jones and even have the chance to dress like him, making a very Zoonique fashion statement with a one-of-kind animal bow tie. Each bow tie will sell for, what else, $57, to match Dhani’s jersey number. All proceeds from this specially designed, limited edition bow tie will benefit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. 

Cocktails and the silent auction begin at 6 p.m. and dinner-by-the-bite begins at 7:45 p.m.  The Soul Pocket Band will take the stage at 9 p.m. until midnight. Tickets cost $200 for Zoo Members and $250 for Non-Zoo Members. Table sponsorships start at $2,000.  For more information, or to purchase tickets, please call 513-487-3328 or visit us online at www.cincinnatizoo.org.