Pretty in Pink: Sunset Safari Supports Conservation With 'Tickled Pink' Theme
The theme of this year’s Sunset Safari, Tickled Pink, could not have been more perfect. In fact, patrons of this annual wildlife-meets-nightlife fundraiser for the Nashville Zoo found ample reason to be head-over-heels happy as they “flamingled” in the VIP tent and on Festival Field.
Guests were greeted by a chorus line of pink flamingos and the happy bleating of goats upon arrival. The evening’s signature drink was a strawberry Pink Flamingo Margarita, and the passed apps were pink pickled stuffed eggs. It seemed everyone got into the spirit of the night by wearing animal prints and shades of Barbie’s favorite pastel.
The Music City Sound played a multigenerational set, so waiting in the quick-moving lines for tastes of Nashville’s eateries felt like a true pleasure. So many restaurants were represented at this fun festival that you could not possibly eat everything — but that didn’t stop curious foodies from trying. A silent auction was added to this year’s event, and patrons perused one-of-a-kind jewelry, presented by Rare Gems of India.
It would not be Sunset Safari if the animal ambassadors did not emerge to greet their fans. To everyone’s delight, Benedict Cumberbunny — a white Flemish Giant rabbit — made a repeat appearance. A Palawan binturong named Willow — the first female of the species to be born in the U.S. — attracted quite a gathering of fans. The attentive zoo staff was on-hand to educate the revelers, introducing the ambassadors to all, and Nashville Zoo President and CEO Rick Schwartz announced the Zoo’s newest addition: a clouded leopard kitten who had been born the previous night.
There is no doubt that the Nashville Zoo is tons of fun and a great place to see fascinating animals, but a lot of serious conservation work happens behind the scenes. Their experienced staff is actively involved in research, habitat protection, breeding programs and education initiatives both around the globe and in our own backyard. Our zoo has made great progress in not only the preservation of endangered species but also in safeguarding habitats, and funds raised through Sunset Safari go to support those conservation programs and their vital work.
