Category: Around Town With HughE

A Wilder Future: Philadelphia Zoo Gala Celebrates Conservation, Community and Philanthropy

It was a wild night for a wonderful cause as Philadelphia’s philanthropic community gathered at the Philadelphia Zoo on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, for A Wilder Future: Philadelphia Zoo Gala, one of the city’s signature fall fundraising events.

Guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails, dinner, wildlife encounters and celebration at America’s first zoo, all while supporting its mission of wildlife conservation, education and inspiring the next generation of animal advocates.

The evening began with the appropriately named Grazing Hour, where guests mingled over cocktails and hors d’œuvre before gathering for dinner and a special program highlighting the Zoo’s accomplishments and its vision for the future.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Roar of Distinction Award to the W. P. Carey Foundation, recognizing its extraordinary generosity and commitment to the Philadelphia Zoo.

The Foundation’s transformational gift helped make the new Francis J. Carey Bear Country possible, providing an exceptional habitat for vulnerable bears while advancing the Zoo’s conservation efforts.

Beyond distinguished attendees and festive atmosphere, the evening was a reminder of the important role the Philadelphia Zoo plays in our community.

From introducing children to wildlife to protecting endangered species around the world, the Zoo continues to connect generations through education, discovery and conservation.

And the fun continues at the Philadelphia Zoo! Boo at the Zoo returns for two more weekends of Halloween festivities, October 24 and 25 and October 31 and November 1.

Then, beginning November 19, the Zoo transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland with LumiNature, featuring more than a million twinkling lights, spectacular wildlife-inspired displays, festive entertainment and the 110-foot-tall Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel.

Thank you to all the supporters of the Philadelphia Zoo’s efforts.

It’s a wonderful time to visit one of Philadelphia’s most beloved attractions, whether you’re bringing the kids, grandchildren or planning a festive night out with friends.

Visit PhiladelphiaZoo.org for details and tickets.

Held at Urban Outfitters, Inc. headquarters in the Navy Yard, Fred’s Footsteps hosted its annual Party in the Yard fundraiser on March 7, 2026, delivering a night filled with Philadelphia pride, community spirit, and impactful giving raising $348,000 for Local Families.

From the moment guests arrived, the energy was unmistakably Philly. The evening’s theme celebrated the city in full force, from locally inspired appetizers and décor to eye-catching, real-life “golden” statues of Rocky Balboa and Benjamin Franklin welcoming attendees.

Adding to the excitement, Swoop made a spirited appearance, while a green screen photo booth transported guests to iconic scenes along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

One of the most talked-about features of the night was the glowing balloon-and-letter marquee display by Charming Garlands, which quickly became a must-stop photo moment. Meanwhile, 13th Street Cocktail Catering elevated the experience with a custom Philly-themed bar, complete with a steaming manhole cover branded with the Fred’s Footsteps logo—a clever nod to the city’s streetscape.

Since its founding in 2005, Fred’s Footsteps has been dedicated to ensuring that a child’s health is a parent’s only worry. The organization provides critical financial relief to working families caring for medically complex children, serving Philadelphia and 18 surrounding counties across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

The program featured a high-energy live auction led by Jeff Hammond, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences including a private chef’s table at Osteria, a VIP Philadelphia Eagles training camp experience, and a luxury Philadelphia Phillies suite outing.

Guests also showed overwhelming generosity during the paddle raise, funding essential needs such as wheelchair-accessible vans, home modifications, and basic household expenses for families facing medical hardship.

From silent auction bids and raffle ticket purchases to enthusiastic paddle raises, every moment of participation contributed to a powerful outcome. By the end of the evening, Fred’s Footsteps raised an impressive $348,000, directly supporting families navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.

Fred’s loves Phillyand once again, Philadelphia showed up.

Thanks for stopping by!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE