NASSCO Events

4:00 p.m. – Check in available – You will be able to enter the zoo at this time. The Zoofari Party Area will be available at 5:30 p.m.
5:30 p.m. – Reception & Animal Encounter – Reception begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Zoofari Party Area. The Animal Encounter will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.
6:30 p.m. – Check in at Zoo entrance closes – Buffet Opens
7:00 p.m. – Program Awards Begin
7:45 p.m. – Program ends, dancing
9:00 p.m. – Celebration ends, zoo closes

In addition to the new location, we are offering a buffet style meal as well as open seating. This will give you more flexibility in your meal choice as well as table locations.

The parking lot in front of the San Diego Zoo is owned and operated by the City of San Diego. Parking in this lot, as well as the parking lots in and around Balboa Park, is free. During peak attendance days (holiday periods, summer, and weekends), the parking lot may be full. We encourage guests to park in overflow parking, located at Inspiration Point on the east side of Park Boulevard, between President’s Way and the Balboa Park Activity Center, and either walk or take the shuttle that services that serves Balboa Park.

Look for the NASSCO registration table outside the main entrance of the Zoo for your ticket. You will receive a ticket to enter the zoo and a wristband to gain access to the party area. Registration will be open from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

When entering the park, the Zoofari Party Area is to the left, next to the skytram. There will be signs directing to the area.

Yes! You can bring one guest with you. Make sure to enter their name when you RSVP.

No problem! If you have any changes or questions, email us at serviceawards@nassco.com or call (619)857-0954.

Yes! Access to the Zoo is available after 4pm. Make sure to stop by the registration table outside the Zoo’s main entrance to get your ticket(s).

Dress code is business casual. Business casual is a mix of professional and casual clothing.