One of Bridgeport’s most beloved summer traditions is back and bigger than ever. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is celebrating 20 years of its iconic Wild Wine, Food & Beverage Safari, inviting guests to explore the Zoo after hours while enjoying an evening packed with tastings, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. The event returns on Saturday, June 6, and tickets are officially on sale.
A Night of Food, Flavor, and Fun
This 21+ event brings together more than 50 restaurants, caterers, and beverage vendors from across the region. Guests can stroll the Zoo grounds at sunset, sampling bites and sips from some of the area’s most popular culinary names. Expect everything from savory small plates to sweet treats, plus a wide range of beverages to discover.
The night also includes live music, interactive games, a premium silent auction, and the rare chance to encounter some of the Zoo’s animals up close—something you won’t get during regular daytime visits.
VIP Hour Returns With Exclusive Tastings
This year’s VIP Hour is hosted by Foolproof Brewery, BE Chocolat, David Alan Hospitality Group, Big G’s Cookies, The Bites Company, and Sound Coffee. VIP guests get early entry, elevated tastings, and special animal encounters before the main event begins. These tickets are limited and expected to sell out quickly.
A Culinary Lineup Worth Exploring
This year’s Safari features standout offerings from regional favorites, including:
Abi’s Falafel, Blind Rhino, Braxtons Hospitality Group, Dave Grant Caterers, David Alan Hospitality Group, East Coast Clambakes, Fortuna’s Catering, Garden Catering, Haven Hot Chicken, Little Pub, Nuovo Pasta, Palmer’s Catering, Post Road Hospitality Group (Ryebird & Saigon Snack Bar), Shake Shack, Taco Loco, The Batch Pantry, Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill, and Vazzy’s.
Whether you’re into comfort food, global flavors, or classic New England bites, there’s something for every palate.
Supporting the Zoo’s Mission
As one of the Zoo’s largest annual fundraisers, the Wild Wine, Food & Beverage Safari helps support animal care, conservation efforts, exhibit improvements, and educational programming. The event will be held rain or shine, and all proceeds go toward sustaining Connecticut’s only zoo—now celebrating 102 years.
Tickets & Info
Tickets, volunteer opportunities, and silent auction details can be found at:
beardsleyzoo.org/wild-wine.html
The 203local Take
For anyone in Fairfield or New Haven County, this event is the perfect early‑summer night out. It’s close, easy to get to, and offers a totally different way to experience a place many of us grew up visiting. Exploring the Zoo after hours feels special on its own—but pairing it with great food, local vendors, live music, and a community vibe makes it one of the most unique annual events in the region. If you’re looking for a fun, social, and distinctly local way to kick off June, this Safari is absolutely worth the trip.
