WITW FAQs

What is the date and time for Wine In The Wild 2025?

Saturday, June 6, 2026. VIP 5:30pm to 7:00pm inside the Nature Exploration Center left of the ticket booth. General Admission 7:00pm to 9:00pm throughout Sunset Zoo’s Park. Gift shop close at 8:30pm. Animal exhibits begin closing at 8:30pm. Last pour at 8:45pm. Sunset Zoo will have special hours 6/6/26 opening at 9:30am and closing early at 1:00pm for fundraiser set up.

What is the difference between VIP and GA tickets?

VIP reception begins at 5:30pm and ends at 7:00pm inside the Nature Exploration Center for $100 per ticket. VIP guests enjoy an exclusive premium wine tasting and gourmet food. VIP includes access to General Admission. General Admission begins at 7:00pm throughout Sunset Zoo for $65 per ticket, with wine stations, hors d’oeuvre tables, and live entertainment at Chautauqua Amphitheater.

Is there a different ticket fee for designated drivers or non-alcohol drinkers?

VIP tickets are $100 each, while General Admission tickets are $65 each, regardless of alcohol consumption status, including non-drinking attendees and designated drivers; non-alcoholic beverages will be available.

Where can I purchase Wine In The Wild Tickets? Can I purchase tickets at the zoo with cash, check or card?

Click here to buy WITW tickets now! if you need assistance purchasing tickets online call Sunset Zoo at 785-587-2737 during regular business hours, and we will guide you through the online purchasing process. Please note that the ticket link directs you to an external website managed by Sunset Zoo. Tickets are not available for purchase at Sunset Zoo or over the phone.

Do I need to print out my tickets or show a receipt when I arrive?

Attendees do not need to print out tickets or present a ticket QR code because Sunset Zoo will have a master list of guests. Attendees are required to present a valid ID for proof of age (driver’s license, passport, or real ID) at time of entry, ensuring the name matches that on the ticket.

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter Wine in the Wild?

All attendees must be at least 21 years old to enter, regardless of whether they are consuming alcohol. Infants, children, and other under 21 years of age are not permitted.

Can children or infants attend the event?

Given that alcohol will be served, Wine In The Wild is exclusively for adults 21 years and up; infants, children, and individuals under 21 are not permitted.

I'm unable to attend the event and would like to transfer my ticket to a friend; how do I transfer my ticket?

If you created an account, you can log in and update the ticket holder name(s) on your order. Need further assistance? Email [email protected] and include the original order #, original attendee first & last name(s), original attendee email(s), new attendee(s) first & last name(s), and new attendee email(s).

 To transfer a ticket to a friend at the original price, please follow the TRANSFER tickets steps outlined in your original order email, enabling the buyer to purchase the ticket directly from you.

I found someone selling tickets online to this event, are these tickets legit?

Sunset Zoo strictly prohibits the resale of tickets to any fundraising event and advises the public to be vigilant against ticket reseller scams. If you suspect you've been scammed by a reseller, please notify your bank or credit card company immediately and report the incident at https://www.usa.gov/where-report-scams. Should you consider purchasing tickets from an unknown online source, feel free to contact Sunset Zoo to verify the authenticity of the original buyer, as there are no physical tickets for this event.

What are my parking options and is there overnight parking?

Parking options include the Zoo's main lot, Oak Street, the field to the east, and the Manhattan High School side lot. Sunset Zoo prioritizes guest safety and encourages all visitors to designate a driver, carpool, or use rideshare apps like Lyft or Uber for a safe journey home. Attendees are welcome to leave their vehicles overnight, with retrieval available by 5:00pm on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

What should I wear to the event?

Dress in business casual attire and remember that comfortable shoes are encouraged, as you'll be exploring the Zoo's 26-acre park throughout the event.

What is the refund policy?

Wine In The Wild, a fundraiser for Sunset Zoo's conservation initiatives, will take place rain or shine, and as such, refunds are not available; your contribution directly supports the Zoo's mission to inspire conservation of the natural world.

Can I smoke at the event?

Sunset Zoo is a tobacco-free, smoke-free, and vape-free park; however, a designated smoking area is provided outside the Zoo's entry gate in the parking lot, located at least 20 feet away from the entrance in compliance with Riley County law.

What happens if it rains? 

Wine In The Wild will take place rain or shine, with no refunds or exchanges available; if rain occurs, Sunset Zoo will adjust certain activities, so guests are encouraged to bring umbrellas and ponchos to ensure a fun experience. Complimentary ponchos are available if it begins to rain, while supplies last. 

What is with the camera?

This event will feature a professional photographer capturing moments throughout the evening; these images are intended solely for Sunset Zoo's use and may be shared on the zoo's website, social media platforms, or in future promotional materials. By attending, you consent to the use of your likeness in these media formats

What is Sunset Zoo's Code of Conduct Policy?

Visit Sunset Zoo's Code of Conduct Policy to learn more!

Will the Gift Shop or Concession Stand be open during event?

On Saturday, June 6, 2026, the gift shop will be open during the fundraiser from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Expedition Cafe concession stand will not be open on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Can I bring my pet to Sunset Zoo?

Pets, animal companions, emotional support animals, and therapy animals are not permitted at Sunset Zoo. Only service animals are permitted into Sunset Zoo per Americans with Disability Act.

Revised 5/7/26