San Diego Zoo Food and Wine Celebration this Saturday

The San Diego Zoo is partnering with San Diego-based tech leader Cymer, Inc. this year to bring you the 31st Annual Food & Wine Celebration (formerly known as Celebration for the Critters) this Saturday, Sept. 24.

Over 175 local food and beverage vendors will be at the celebration this year, and guests will be able to enjoy live music, a silent auction, the Critter Casino, animal meet-ups, and rides on the Skyfari aerial tram.   “Our annual Food & Wine Celebration (formerly known as Celebration for the Critters) is a highly-anticipated event in San Diego as it marries the best culinary experiences the city has to offer with a fun night at the Zoo to support important conservation efforts,” said Mark Stuart, president of The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego at the San Diego Zoo.

Cymer, Inc. has sponsored the Food and Wine Celebration for the last six consecutive years, giving $4 million to support educational, environmental, civic, cultural and health initiatives that enrich the San Diego community.

“We believe in their course towards conservation of animals,” said Blake Miller, the Vice President of Marketing for Cymer, Inc.  Not only does Cymer share a technological relationship with the San Diego Zoo, but also a philanthropic connection that strengthens the relationship, Miller said. “Plus it’s a great opportunity to support a great cause while having a great time in a great setting.”

The zoo will reserve a special area Saturday night to host the celebration , as over 3,000 guests are expected to attend this year’s event.  It is an adult event (21 and over only), and cocktail casual attire is recommended.

General admission tickets are currently on sale for $100 per person, which include food and wine samples.  All the proceeds go to San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/zoo/celebration/2011/faqs

Images courtesy of ConspiracyofHappiness and isante_magazine via Flickr.