Tickets Now on Sale For 2018 Whitney Zoo-To-Do and Zoo-To-Do For Kids Presented by Tulane Pediatrics at Audubon Zoo

Looking for a roaring good time for a great cause?

Tickets are now on sale for New Orleans’ most anticipated, fun-filled philanthropic events: Whitney Zoo-To-Do and Zoo-To-Do for Kids Presented by Tulane Pediatrics which will celebrate the return of lions to Audubon Zoo.

Tickets to both Audubon Zoo events are available for purchase by clicking here or by calling the ticket hotline at (504) 861-5107.

The brand new lion exhibit, made possible through a generous donation from Joy and Boysie Bollinger, will be the focus of the two Zoo-To-Do events, which generate more than $1 million annually for world-class Audubon Zoo projects.

“While our Zoo-To-Do parties offer a wonderful opportunity to have a good time, it’s important to remember that they have a purpose’’ said Audubon Nature Institute President and CEO Ron Forman.

“This year the spotlight is on our new lion exhibit which is the first step in transforming Audubon Zoo’s African Savanna into a one-of-a-kind experience starring some of the most magnificent animals on the planet.’’

Whitney Zoo-To-Do, celebrating its 41st anniversary in 2018, is set for Friday, May 4. General admission begins at 8 p.m. and the party goes until midnight.

Whitney Bank is once again the Title Sponsor for the adults-only black-tie gala event that features an array of high-end cuisine and premium cocktails from local establishments.

“We are honored to partner with Audubon Nature Institute for the 2018 Whitney Zoo-To-Do, an event that will celebrate the return of lions to Audubon Zoo,” said Whitney Bank President Joe Exnicios. “We look forward to joining thousands of guests under the majestic oaks as we celebrate the zoo’s growth and expansion, and we invite you to join us for these festivities, which help preserve one of our community’s most important attractions.”

The New Orleans Pelicans are sponsoring this year’s Whitney Zoo-To-Do Patron Party which begins at 7 p.m., offering access to the gala event along with the Patron Lounge & Patio.

High-energy party band The Big Beyond will take the stage thanks to the generosity of the Headline Entertainment sponsor Chevron Gulf of Mexico Business Unit. Big Sam’s Funky Nation will precede the headliner. Other performers include Bon Bon Vivant near Cooper Plaza and Bamboula 2000 at the gala entrance.

This year, the Whitney Zoo-To-Do silent auction will include a work of art by Alex Beard, a New Orleans artist known for his distinctive depictions of wildlife. Beard serves on the board for the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, an organization that supports wildlife conservation in Kenya.

Zoo-To-Do guests also can take a chance on the 2018 Zoo-To-Do Luxury Vehicle Raffle that features a 2018 Lexus NX300 worth $37,913 generously donated by LEXUS of New Orleans. Tickets are $100 each, and a limit of 1,000 will be sold. One lucky winner - who will be announced from the stage at the event - is guaranteed and the ticket-holder need not be present to win.

Through midnight April 1, Whitney Zoo-To-Do tickets are available at a discounted rate for Audubon Nature Institute members. There is also a member discount for Zoo-To-Do for Kids Presented by Tulane Pediatrics.

The 30th annual Zoo-To-Do for Kids presented by Tulane Pediatrics will take place a week before Whitney Zoo-To-Do on Friday, April 27, with general admission starting at 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Live entertainment will be provided by the Super Stars and guests will enjoy tasty sips and snacks, arcade games, giant inflatables and arts and crafts.

Stephanie Stone Feoli (Mrs. Ludovico Feoli) is the chair of the 2018 Whitney Zoo-To-Do. Malise Kearney (Mrs. Clay P. Kearney) is the chair of the 2018 Zoo-To-Do for Kids Presented by Tulane Pediatrics.