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November 19, 2014
"Winter Zoobilation" and "International Holidays with the Critters" at the Santa Ana Zoo

Come one, come all and enjoy the holiday spirit at the Santa Ana Zoo. Every day during the month of December from 10 am to 4 pm, the Santa Ana Zoo will be transformed into a winter wonderland called "Winter Zoobilation" with magical decorations, faerie lights and falling snow. Guests will be treated to beautiful, original hand-crafted decorations that are perfect for pictures and depict many holiday favorites including Santa's Workshop, Sweet Shop and Post Office cut outs of 3-dimensional wood and individually designed and painted by Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) Board Member Rip Ribble. The Zoofari Express Train ride and Conservation Carrousel will also be lit up in holiday regale and the Treetop Toys Zoo Gift Shop will be filled with great stocking stuffers and gifts.

The Santa Ana Zoo's "International Holidays with the Critters" event will be held on Saturday, December 6th from 10 am - 2 pm, rain or shine. The event is included with the price of admission and FREE for Zoo members. The Zoo will be filled with international stations representing holidays around the world. Guests will be able to join in the celebration with live entertainment, games, stories of winter delights, special children's crafts and a chance to see the Zoo animal friends put on their "winter coats."

"The Santa Ana Zoo is a great place to enjoy the beauty and excitement of the holiday spirit as seen through the eyes of our animals and the people who love them," says David Exline, FOSAZ Board President. "We are so thankful to everyone who visits and supports the Zoo and wish all of you a very safe, happy and heart-felt holiday season."

"The Santa Ana Zoo is a wonderful place to celebrate the holidays, birthdays, family and friends," says Cathi Decker, Executive Director, FOSAZ. "Our Winter Zoobilation and International Holidays with the Critters are great events that everyone will enjoy and cherish for years to come."

September 5, 2014
It's Boo Time at the Santa Ana Zoo!
OC's Premier Halloween Event for Kids

Mark your calendars, grab your costumes, and join us for our annual "merry not scary" Boo at the Zoo! The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo and B.P.O. Elks Santa Ana Lodge #794 present the 24th Annual Boo at the Zoo located at the Santa Ana Zoo, "Home of the 50 Monkeys." The event will take place from 5:30 PM to 8 PM on Saturday, October 18, and Sunday, October 19; Saturday, October 25; Sunday, October 26; and Thursday, October 30, rain or shine.

Boo at the Zoo is one of Orange County's longest-running Halloween events, providing a fun, safe, and family-friendly event for trick-or-treaters and children of all ages who love to wear costumes and embrace the Halloween spirit!

Guests will have the opportunity to explore 10 prize stations on our Trick-or-Treat Trail, enjoy a variety of Halloween-themed games and activities - including storytelling and sing-alongs, and visit with our nocturnal animals. Guests will also be able to participate in our nightly costume parade, led by SAZOO (our monkey mascot).

Our exciting "Boofari" Express Train and Conservation Carrousel rides will be entertaining little ghouls and goblins all night long. Parents, don't forget your cameras! Boo at the Zoo provides great photo opportunities that will last a lifetime.

General Admission is $14 per non-member ages 2 and up, and only $7 per Zoo Member ages 2 and up. Bonus: Children under the age of 2 are free. Join as a Member to receive your half price tickets! Tickets for the "Boo"fari Express and Carrousel will be available for $3 per ride or a $5 combo ticket for both rides. Hot dogs, chips and soda will also be available for purchase nightly provided by the Tustin-Santa Ana Rotary Club, Zoo Docents, and Zookeepers.

For those who are a little older and more adventurous, Boo at the Zoo will once again have a separate area for our "Teen Scream" haunted house (included in the regular price of admission). This is sure to provide chills and thrills for those who dare to enter.

To avoid the lines, admissions are now available online at www.fosaz.org (valid any night of the event, nonrefundable - bring your receipt to Will Call on the night of the event). You may also purchase admissions at the main gate on the night of the event. For more information, please call (714) 953-8555 x12. So grab your costume and we'll see YOU at the BOO at the Santa Ana ZOO!

July 17, 2014
Santa Ana Zoo's 2014 Zoofari "Monkey Magic" Black-Tie Fundraiser Tickets Now on Sale

The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ), a non-profit organization, is pleased to announce ticket sales and media and sponsorship opportunities for its 22nd annual Zoofari "Monkey Magic" fundraising event are now generally available for purchase online or by calling (714) 953-8555 x10.

Tickets to this year's exclusive black-tie gala under the stars are $250 each or $2,500 for a private table of 10. All tickets must be purchased in advance of the event, which will take place Saturday, August 23, from 5:30 pm to midnight at the Santa Ana Zoo in Prentice Park located at 1801 Chestnut Avenue in Santa Ana. Space is limited and tickets will not be sold at the door.

With an expected attendance of more than 400 guests, the glamorous Zoofari fundraising event includes valet parking service underwritten by Tudor House Productions, a first-class dining experience catered by Parties by Panache and a hosted bar including a special "50 Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" cocktail. Partygoers will enjoy an evening of magic, amazing decor by R.W.B. Party Props, dancing to the sounds of Groove Factory and an opportunity to bid on wonderful trips, beautiful baskets, and one-of-a-kind gifts during the event's live and silent auctions hosted by renowned auctioneer Glen Fladeboe.

Honorees this year include Knowlwood owners Thanh Nguyen, PhD, Ginger Nguyen & Tana Everhart and Ginna Nguyen, along with the Zoo's vet and renowned animal specialist Scott Weldy, DVM.

"For more than 20 years, Zoofari has played an integral role in raising the funds needed for all the special projects and improvements going on here at Orange County's favorite zoo including breaking ground on new animal habitats, tackling important conservation initiatives, introducing new rides and upgrading service facilities for our guests to use and enjoy," says Cathi Decker, event host and Executive Director of FOSAZ.

"Zoofari is a first-class fundraising event that demonstrates the love and investment the local community, surrounding businesses and FOSAZ have for the Zoo," says David Exline, President of the FOSAZ Board. "This year's Zoofari Monkey Magic promises to be another endearing and festive evening our guests will cherish and a night of giving that will have a lasting and positive impact on the Santa Ana Zoo for years to come."

To find out more about the 2014 Zoofari Monkey Magic, discuss potential sponsorship opportunities or to reserve seats and purchase tickets, call (714) 953-8555 x10 or view our Zoofari page.

May 28, 2014
Santa Ana Zoo Announces 2014 Summer Concert Series & Beer Tasting Events
Friends of the Santa Ana Zoo Swings into Summer with Cool Line Up of Musical Guests and Local Craft Breweries; First Concert is Saturday, June 8th at 5:30pm

The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) today announced the 2014 "Sunsets at the Zoo" summer concert series and "Brew at the Zoo" beer tasting events are back by popular demand again this summer! The first concert and brew tasting will take place Saturday, June 8th at 5:30 PM.

Held annually, FOSAZ's after-hours Sunday summer concert series and tasting events feature live music, art by local artisans, Zoo animals, a silent auction, and train and carrousel rides. Sunset Guests are encouraged to grab a blanket, pack your own picnic dinner, or purchase BBQ items provided by the Elks, and bring a camera for some great photo opportunities.

Additionally, Zoo guests and members 21 and older with a valid ID are welcome to make a $10 donation to the Zoo and enjoy a unique craft brew-tasting experience from a handful of Orange County's finest craft beer brewers. All proceeds raised will benefit The Santa Ana Zoo. Event dates and artists include:
  • Sunday, June 8, 5:30-7:30 PM:
    • Featuring: The Fabulous Peggie Perkins
    • Tasting: Stone & Tustin Brewing
  • Sunday, June 22, 5:30-7:30 PM:
    • Featuring: The Mighty Mojo Prophets
    • Tasting: The Bruery & Ambitious Ales
  • Sunday, July 6, 5:30-7:30 PM:
    • Featuring: The Posse
    • Tasting: Valiant & Bootleggers
  • Sunday, July 20, 5:30-7:30 PM:
    • Featuring: Psykotik Reaktion
    • Tasting: Bayhawk Brewery & Bottle Logic Brewing
General admission to Sunsets at the Zoo is $10 per person ages 3 and up. Zoo Members and their guests receive a 50% discount and children under 3 are free. The cost to enjoy the Brew at the Zoo tasting experience is an additional $10 donation per person and is reserved for adults 21 and over with valid IDs.

"Sunsets at the Zoo and Brew at the Zoo deliver a cool Sunday summertime activity for friends, families, and couples who enjoy listening to live music, picnicking on the lawn, and tasting great brews," says Steve McGuigan, event organizer and Communications Chair for the Santa Ana Zoo Board of Directors. "We're thrilled to once again welcome local artists and showcase the craftsmanship of Orange County's finest breweries at Sunsets and Brew at the Zoo."

Knowlwood Cafe at the Zoo restaurant sponsors a "Blues at the Zoo" concert series on the same dates as Sunsets. However they are separate events from Sunsets. These family fun concerts take place during regular Zoo hours from 2-4 PM inside the Zoo on the front lawn and feature some of the finest Blues performers and bands in Orange County. "Blues at the Zoo" are included in the regular price of Zoo admission. If you are entering the Zoo prior to 4:00 p.m. and will be attending our Sunset at the Zoo special event, there will be an additional charge to attend the event.

April 23, 2014
The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo Honor Earth Day with "Party for the Planet" Celebration on May 10

The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) today announced its annual Party for the Planet event will take place Saturday, May 10 from 11:00am-2:00pm on the beautiful Santa Ana Zoo grounds, "Home of the 50 Monkeys." Exclusive to AZA-(Association of Zoos & Aquariums) accredited establishments, Party for the Planet represents the largest shared Earth Day celebration in North America.

Open to the public, Party for the Planet is a fun-filled day that celebrates wildlife while promoting conservation and educating Zoo-goers about the different ways they can help protect the environment and "go green." The event is FREE for FOSAZ Members and included in the price of general admission.

Throughout the event, Zoo guests are welcome to participate in conservation-friendly crafts and fun games including bird bingo, as well as learn from hands-on demonstrations and education stations featuring recycling and sustainable living. The Conservation Carrousel and Zoofari Express Train Rides will be available for $3 each, and combo tickets for $5 each. Children under 2 are free to ride with paid adult on the Train and adults standing with children on the Carrousel are free. And don't forget the Zoo's conservation friendly playground and multiple picnic areas.

"The Santa Ana Zoo strives to lead by example when it comes to conservation, sustainability and going green," says David Exline, FOSAZ President. "Party for the Planet allows us to share environmentally-friendly best practices with the community and show our guests first-hand the benefits of living green. From the drought-tolerant plants we grow, to the wood we select for use in our habitats-for us, conservation and protecting our environment is a personal and professional choice." The 2014 Party for the Planet event marks the 13th year the Friends of Santa Ana Zoo has hosted an event in honor of Earth Day. Participants include the Orange County Vector Control District, the Santa Ana City Water District, Sea & Sage Audubon Society and the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Children will learn about recycling, composting, beneficial bugs, birds and frogs. More information about the Zoo's conservation efforts can be found online at http://fosaz.org/attractg.htm.

March 25, 2014
FOSAZ Hosts Spring Sp"egg"tacular
Sunday, April 20, 2014 from 11:00am to 2:00pm

The Santa Ana Zoo, "Home of the 50 Monkeys," today announced it will celebrate its Spring Sp"egg"tacular on Sunday, April 20th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. The event celebrates the wonders of the spring season and spotlights a number of new animals including several spring-tastic bunnies; eclectic flocks of wild and crazy turkeys, hens and roosters; as well as a handful of mischievous young monkeys.

Fun for all ages, the Zoo's Spring Sp"egg"tacular will include music, food, entertainment, treats and stations with fun facts about eggs, spring, animals and more. Zoo guests can also visit the Crean Family Farm and the Colorful Amazon Aviary. The Conservation Carrousel and Zoofari Express Train will also be available for $3 each or $5 for a combo ticket. And don't forget the Santa Ana Zoo's favorite stomping ground, the conservation-friendly playground and picnic area.

"Spring is an awesome time of year to celebrate the beauty of the Zoo's gardens and enjoy the livelihood of our more than 150 animals," says FOSAZ Board President David Exline. "The Santa Ana Zoo Spring Sp"egg"tacular is a wonderful and festive event that makes for the perfect play date, lunch date or both for couples, friends and families with little ones who are on the hunt for something fun and affordable to do."

February 13, 2014
Santa Ana ZOO Celebrates 62 Years of Wild Life!
Join the Fun with Two Days of SAZOO Birthday Mania on Saturday, March 1 and Sunday, March 2 from 11 am - 2 pm

The Santa Ana Zoo, "Home of the 50 Monkeys," today announced it will celebrate its 62nd Birthday on Saturday, March 1st and Sunday, March 2nd, 2014. The wild animal birthday bash will take place on the Zoo grounds from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Live music and entertainment are included in the cost of general admission. Birthday cake compliments of Knowlwood will be served at 12 noon. Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) Members are welcome to join the celebration at no additional cost.

Throughout the event, children and adults who are kids at heart will enjoy minitature train displays by Del Oro Pacific, singing happy birthday, dancing on the lawn, and visiting with the Zoo's more than 150 animals. The marvelous Guardette Dance Troupe and SAZOO, the Zoo's resident monkey mascot and honorary OC celebrity, will also be on hand to engage, entertain and take photos.

Additionally, Zoo birthday guests will love visiting the Crean Family Farm and the Colorful Amazon Aviary. The Conservation Carrousel and Zoofari Express Train will also be available for $3 each or $5 for a combo ticket. And don't forget SAZOO's favorite stomping ground, the conservation friendly playground.

"For 62 years The Santa Ana Zoo has remained one of Southern California's most memorable places for families and friends to come together, enjoy wildlife and learn about conservation and the wonders of nature," says FOSAZ Executive Director Cathi Decker. "We are thrilled to once again share our birthday celebration with the community!"

January 23, 2014
The Santa Ana Zoo Celebrates Annual Member Appreciation Day on February 8th
Members-Only Event Welcomes Marine Life from Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific's "Aquarium on Wheels"

The Santa Ana Zoo, "Home of the 50 Monkeys", announced its annual Membership Appreciation Day will take place, rain or shine, on Saturday, February 8th, 2014 from 11 am to 2 pm.

The exclusive event is free to Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) members and will feature marine life from the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific's "Aquarium on Wheels." Joining in the celebration will be tide pool favorites including star fish, sea anemones, sea urchins, warty and sea cucumbers, as well as swell sharks and lobsters. Many of these sea animals will be available for children to interact with.

Throughout the celebration, which will take place in the Zoo Amphitheatre, FOSAZ members and children will have the opportunity to learn about marine life, and participate in ocean-themed crafts while listening to live music and entertainment. The playground, picnic area and Knowlwoods Cafe will also be open for FOSAZ members to enjoy.

"This year's FOSAZ Member Appreciation Day is a celebration of all animals that live on the land, in the sky and in the sea," says Cathi Decker, executive director, FOSAZ. "We're thrilled to welcome the Aquarium of the Pacific's 'Aquarium on Wheels' and share the beauty and mystery of marine life with our Zoo members."

To become a Member of the Santa Ana Zoo, call (714) 953-8555 x13 or visit our website at www.fosaz.org. An annual FOSAZ membership is $70 for a single individual or family of six or less. Aquarium of the Pacific members will receive a $5 discount of any FOSAZ membership packages purchased now thru February 8th, 2014.

Other family favorites included in this special event are Tierra de las Pampas, home to the new baby anteater, the Crean Family Farm and the Colorful Amazon Aviary. Additionally, rides on the Conservation Carrousel and Zoofari Express Train will be available for $3 each or $5 for a combo ticket. The Zoo will remain open to the general public during the celebration.

The Santa Ana Zoo is home to more than 150 animals, including 50 of the most entertaining and engaging monkeys and several endangered species, like the Golden Lion Tamarins. The Zoo gates open daily from 10 am - 4 pm.

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