Something wickedly fun this way comes at the Columbus Zoo. On May 17, 2025, the Zoo is rolling out RendeZOO, a brand-new annual fundraiser designed just for adults (21+).
For its inaugural year, the event is going all in on a “Wicked” theme, blending live music, magic, and exclusive after-hours animal encounters—all without the daytime crowds. If you’ve ever wanted to sip cocktails while meeting exotic creatures under the stars, this is your chance.
What to Expect
RendeZOO will transform the zoo into an after-dark experience with live entertainment, food, drinks, and a few surprises.
Here’s what’s on the agenda:
A VIP Experience (If You’re Feeling Fancy)
For those who want an extra-special night, VIP tickets include perks like:
Tickets and Pricing
Tickets are on sale now, with early bird discounts available through March 2, 2025:
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General Admission (Ruby Guild): $135 early bird | $150 after March 2
VIP Experience (Emerald Circle): $500 (limited availability)
Supporting a Bigger Mission
Beyond the party vibes, RendeZOO is a fundraiser supporting the Columbus Zoo’s conservation work. Proceeds go toward caring for animals and funding wildlife preservation efforts locally and globally.
“We are always looking for new and exciting ways to engage with our guests, and RendeZOO is a perfect example of that,” said Brian Harman, Senior Vice President of External Affairs at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. “This event is all about having fun while supporting the Columbus Zoo’s mission.”
Whether you’re a die-hard Oz fan or just looking for a unique night out, RendeZOO is bringing a fresh spin to the typical zoo experience. Tickets are available at columbuszoo.org/rendezoo.
