Salisbury Zoo to Host 70th Anniversary Gala

Silver Bison for Salisbury Zoo 70th anniversary

SALISBURY, MD – The Salisbury Zoo is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2024, and to honor this occasion, the Salisbury Zoo and the Salisbury Zoo Commission are hosting a gala at the Zoo.

The Salisbury Zoo’s 70th Anniversary Gala is set for Saturday, June 8, from 5-9 p.m. The event will be held outdoors by the Zoo’s East Gate and will feature a catered dinner, silent and chance auctions, live music and animal talks. Each ticket includes dinner and two drinks.

The schedule of events includes a social hour and silent auction from 5-6 p.m., dinner and a presentation from 6-7:30 p.m. and a live auction and closing from 7:30-9 p.m. The dress code is outdoor cocktail attire.

The Salisbury Zoo, a free community asset owned by the City of Salisbury, was created after unwanted wild animals were released into the Salisbury City Park in the early 1950s. The first zookeeper was hired in 1954, and the Salisbury Zoo was further developed over time. The Zoo continually adapts to updated standards for the care of the animals in its collection.  

“For the past 70 years, the Salisbury Zoo has served as a place where guests can enjoy nature and learn about wildlife and conservation,” said Zoo Director Chuck Eicholz. “We invite you to join us as we embark on a Zoovolution and celebrate with us at the first gala we’ve hosted in many years.”

The gala is a fundraiser for the Salisbury Zoo’s future growth, including new exhibits and improvements to the Zoo. Salisbury University and the Salisbury University Foundation, Inc., are supporting the event as a Platinum Sponsor, and others have pledged their support, as well.

Tickets are $100 each; limited tickets are available at www.bit.ly/SalisburyZooGala through May 31. Sponsorship information is also available at that link.