Building Generations of Connections with Zoo-to-Do at Audubon Zoo

Part of Audubon Zoo’s history and the future of one of Louisiana’s native animals are the focus of this year’s Zoo-to-Do fundraising events at Audubon Zoo. This year marks the 46^th annual Hancock Whitney Zoo-to-Do and the 35^th time that Zoo-to-Do for Kids presented by Children’s Hospital New Orleans have been the “wildest” parties in town.

Hancock Whitney Zoo-to-Do is set for Friday, May 3, 2024, and Zoo-to-Do for Kids presented by Children’s Hospital of New Orleans is set for Friday, April 26, 2024.

Tickets are now on sale for both events and available for purchase online at ZootoDo.org or by calling the ticket hotline at (504) 861-5107.

The events celebrate an important milestone in the history of Audubon Zoo – the 100^th anniversary of the historic Odenheimer Complex. Built in 1924, the domed structure at the Complex’s center was the original Audubon Aquarium and one of the early Zoo’s most popular attractions. The complex is named for philanthropist Sigmund Odenheimer, whose immense support in the 1920s helped shape Audubon Zoo into the landmark it is today. Throughout the years, the complex has been expanded to incorporate additional exhibits, including Audubon’s Reptile Encounter and Wings of the World, which opened last spring.

“Zoo guests have enjoyed this beautiful part of the Zoo for a century,” said Ron Forman, Audubon Nature Institute President and CEO. “We plan to begin renovations on the historic Odenheimer rotunda later this year to preserve it for future generations to enjoy and make connections with each other and nature for years to come.” Forman has led Audubon Nature Institute for nearly 53 years and steps down from his current position at the end of 2024. Under his lengthy tenure, Zoo-to-Do events have raised more than $40 million dollars benefiting Audubon Zoo and its conservation work.

The 2024 Zoo-To-Do events also highlight one of the rarest snakes in the United States and Audubon’s efforts to save them. Due to habitat loss, the population of Louisiana pine snakes is rapidly declining. As part of the Louisiana Pine Snake Conservation and Recovery Program, Audubon’s reptile team has successfully hatched hundreds of the endangered snakes and released them into the wild.

“We are honored and proud to partner with Audubon Nature Institute again this year to sponsor Hancock Whitney Zoo-to-Do and celebrate Audubon Zoo’s history and conservation efforts,” said Liz Hefler, Hancock Whitney Regional President for Greater New Orleans Market. “Hancock Whitney is celebrating our 125^th anniversary this year, so like Audubon, we understand the importance of recognizing our history with an eye to the future. We’re glad we can play a role in the important work to protect endangered species underway at Audubon Nature Institute.”

Hancock Whitney Zoo-to-Do features live entertainment from Casa Samba, Sierra Green and the Giants and the Phunky Monkeys, premium cocktails, delicious cuisine from local restaurants, an online silent auction, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry Pick-A-Present, and Lexus luxury car raffle. This year, the event Chair is Helen Nalty Butcher.

The younger set has their turn to celebrate on Friday, Apil 26, 2024 at Zoo-to-Do for Kids presented by Children’s Hospital of New Orleans. They can party the evening away with games, giant inflatables, live entertainment, arts & crafts and delicious sips and snacks.  Meredith Claiborne serves as this year’s Chair for the popular event.