Jacksonville News

Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens Announces Tickets Now on Sale for ExZOOberation: Seagrass Derby on May 2

Early bird pricing available through April 10
JACKSONVILLE, FLA. – Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens announced today that tickets are 
now on sale for ExZOOberation: Seagrass Derby, the Zoo’s premier annual fundraising event, taking 
place Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
For the first time, ExZOOberation will be held beneath the breathtaking VyStar SkyScape, 
overlooking the new J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River habitat, offering guests a 
one-of-a-kind setting for an unforgettable evening.
Inspired by the excitement and pageantry of Derby Day, ExZOOberation: Seagrass Derby will blend 
Southern charm, bold fashion, and the thrill of the Kentucky Derby into a high-energy celebration. 
Guests will enjoy a lively watch party of the “most exciting two minutes in sports,” alongside 
immersive experiences that highlight the Zoo’s mission to care for thousands of animals and plants 
while advancing critical conservation efforts.
“ExZOOberation is more than a celebration, it’s an opportunity for our community to come together 
in support of wildlife and conservation,” said Nikki Smith, Jacksonville Zoo’s Chief Philanthropy and 
Marketing Officer. “This year’s Seagrass Derby theme, paired with our stunning new SkyScape and 
Manatee River habitat, will create an experience unlike anything we’ve hosted before.”
The evening will feature all-inclusive food and beverage tastings from local culinary favorites, open 
bars, live entertainment, casino-style gaming, up-close animal experiences, and a curated silent 
auction with more than 100 items and experiences.
Proceeds from ExZOOberation directly support animal wellbeing, fund educational programs, and 
advance vital conservation initiatives locally and around the world.
ExZOOberation is a 21+ event. All ticket levels include food and beverage tastings, with early bird 
pricing available through April 10. Presale General Admission begins at $185, while VIP Admission 
and VIP Table packages provide access to a premium experience area, buffet, and exclusive 
vendors.
To purchase tickets or learn more, visit: www.jacksonvillezoo.org/exzooberation.

About Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens
For over 100 years, the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens has aimed to inspire the discovery 
and appreciation of wildlife through innovative experiences in a caring environment. Starting in 
1914 with an animal collection of one red deer fawn, the Zoo now has more than 2,000 rare and 
exotic animals and 1,000 species of plants, boasting the largest botanical garden in Northeast 
Florida. The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a nonprofit organization and a portion of 
every ticket sold goes to the over 35 conservation initiatives Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical 
Gardens supports around the world, and here in NE Florida. The Zoo is proud to be an accredited 
member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, visit jacksonvillezoo.org.
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