NORFOLK — Growl Fest has returned to the Virginia Zoo, bringing craft beer and family-friendly fun to the zoo.
The fest will be after hours on Sept. 14, from 6 to 9 p.m.
At this family-friendly event attendees can taste local craft beers, and food truck treats, plus enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the zoo, officials said.
Animals will be on exhibit until 7:30 p.m.
The YMCA of South Hampton Roads will also be hosting a children’s play area with games, an obstacle course and other activities.
This year, 11 Virginia breweries will be serving up a wide selection of craft beers, officials said.
Most participating breweries will offer discounts on growler fills with the 2019 Growl Fest growler through the month of October.
Six food vendors will participate, including Cast Iron Catering, Vicki Vail’s, Hangry’s, Chesapeake Concessions, N’awlins Xscape and food from the zoo itself will be available for sale.
General admission tickets are $25 and include the commemorative 32-ounce glass growler and beer or tasting tickets.
Other special-priced tickets for youth and designated drivers will also be available, officials said.
This after-hours event is sponsored by MMC Benefits, Dollar Bank and Crenshaw, Martin and Ware, PLC, in partnership with the Norfolk Sunrise Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Norfolk.
Last year’s event raised more than $25,000, with the profits split between the Rotary clubs and the zoo.
Money raised from events like Growl Fest benefit the zoo’s educational programming, events, improvements and upgrades, officials said.
The Norfolk Sunrise Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Norfolk support a variety of Hampton Roads nonprofits as well.
For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
