A Wilder Future: Philadelphia Zoo Gala Lights Up the City
On September 30, 2025, the venerable grounds of the Philadelphia Zoo transformed into one of the city’s most elegant philanthropic gatherings of the fall: A Wilder Future. Under canopy of trees, dotted lanterns and the hum of conversation, guests arrived for Grazing Hour at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and program at 7:00 PM, and a dessert reception at 8:45 PM. The evening started among the beasts who roam in the treetops above the walkways. It was a brisk fall night, perfect weather for mingling under the purr of the cats.
Chairs Shaina and Nathaniel P. Hamilton, Jr., and Jennifer and Steve Shea set the tone for the night, assisted by a deep roster of committee members who represent the heart of Philadelphia philanthropy and civic life.
The event marked a first in several ways: the presentation of the Zoo’s very first Lifetime Achievement Award, and the spotlight on one of its most extraordinary conservation successes — the hatchlings of “Mommy,” the Galápagos tortoise whose young draw global attention.
For the city of Philadelphia this gala is more than a party: it is a signal that conservation, education and social connection are intertwined. Guests weren’t just dressed up—they were investing in the next generation of zoological scientists, in community education, and in a place (our Zoo) that continues to evolve and make headlines.
As the dessert plates cleared and the evening lingered under the glow of the zoo lights, one thing was clear: Philadelphia is ready for a wilder future—one that blends high society with high purpose like the Philadelphia Zoo’s mission of conservation.
Save The Date: LumiNature is back with more breathtaking sights, sounds, and surprises! Open from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. on select nights, November 20 through January 3. INFO & TICKETS HERE, also ride the 100 foot Ferris Wheel, now through 2026!!
I’ll see you at the zoo. It’s not just for summer activities.
Socially yours, xoxo HughE