Zoo Stories

As a kid, I always wondered what the zoo was like after closing time. Tonight, it will be transformed into the enchanted fairy tale land I once imagined, complete with characters such as Snow White, Shrek, Tarzan — and real live animals, of course. ZOOmily, taking place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Denver Zoo, will transport kids and their families to a magical forest, Seuss land, swamp and jungle where they can eat desserts, hear their favorite fairy tales re-tooled with environmentally friendly themes, and get up close with turtles, snakes and alligators. Kids can make their own slime and drums, too, and try on a pair of extender arms to see how it feels to walk on their knuckles like a gorilla. Tiffany Barnhart, public relations manager, says the event is geared to kids three to seven years old — who should come dressed as a character from their favorite animal fairy tale — but it includes a full dinner everyone should enjoy; proceeds benefit the Red Apple Fund, which subsidizes zoo programs and visits for low-income groups and families.

For zoo members, tickets are $15 for one or $55 for a family four-pack. For non-members, it’s $18 or $65. Go to www.denverzoo.org or call 303-376-4800 for tickets and more information.
Sat., Aug. 9, 6-9 p.m., 2008