Sunset Safari Offers Epicurean Delights Between Raindrops

As guests arrived for the Nashville Zoo’s annual Sunset Safari, the skies darkened and the rain that had been threatening to come finally arrived. But the brief downpour didn’t dampen the spirits of the conservation enthusiasts and food lovers. In fact, it left behind a blanket of mist that created an ethereal glow throughout the zoo.

Patrons and supporters of the Nashville Zoo gathered early in the VIP tent. Trays of hors d’oeuvres made their way through the crowd, and many guests enjoyed the beautiful cheese-and-charcuterie display in the center of the tent. Co-chairs Chip Wilkison and Maggie Finn mingled with attendees throughout the evening.

Outside the tent, in Festival Field, guests enjoyed performances by The Music City Sound, Jonny Gray and circus company Beyond Wings. Adventurous guests got tarot card readings from The Emerald Eye. Epicurean delights were on full display, as some of Nashville’s best eateries peppered the zoo’s trail. Joe Muer Seafood, Kayne Prime, Elliston Place Soda Shop, and Curry and Tikka were just a few of the establishments offering up culinary bliss. Some chose to forget calorie counting for the evening and enjoyed one (or two) of Puckett’s Restaurant’s “Piggy Macs” — smoked, pulled pork topped with delicious mac and cheese. Tiff’s Treats Cookie Delivery, Tempered Fine Chocolate and more were strategically positioned to tempt anyone with a sweet tooth.

The stars of the night were the animal ambassadors that greeted guests throughout the event. On arrival, guests met Branch and his best friend Poppy — both Juliana pigs, which are some of the smallest around. Along the path to the VIP tent, hyacinth macaws called out as guests walked by. These animal encounters brought home the important work the Nashville Zoo does every day. With over 350 species, 100 of which are in a species survival program, the zoo works tirelessly to help protect and preserve the biodiversity of our planet.