Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens ExZOOberation Riverfront Rendezvous 2025
May 3rd 2025
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Digital Program
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the 28th annual ExZOOberation: Riverfront Rendezvous! I’m so glad you’re joining us tonight as we celebrate the vibrant spirit of Jacksonville, the magic of our animal ambassadors, and the power of conservation.
Your generosity tonight directly supports the well-being of our animals, the protection of wild spaces, and our Zoo’s mission to connect our community with nature. Whether you’re sipping signature cocktails, dancing under the lights, bidding on silent auction items, or meeting one of our animal friends—know that you’re making a real impact.
Thank you to our incredible sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and our Honorary Chairs, Coach Liam Coen and Ashley Coen, for making this evening possible. Enjoy the night. We are thrilled you’re here!
Jeff Ettling, Ph.D President and CEO of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
5 pm–9:30 pm ....................................................................... Food and Drink Vendors
6 pm–8 pm ...................................................................................... VIP Buffet Available
6 pm–9 pm .............................................................................................. Casino Games including Wild Savannah Race, Craps, Blackjack, and Roulette
9 pm .............................................. Silent Auction Check Out and Chip Redemption
$20 Redeem at Silent Auction Check Out Table After 9 pm
MAIN CAMP
• Welcome and Registration
• Cocktails, Beer, and Wine
• Photo Opportunities
• Train & Tuk Tuk Rides Available
TROUT RIVER GRILL PATIO & COURTYARD (VIP)
• VIP Seating
• VIP Dinner Buffet
6–8 pm, inside Trout River Grill
• Exclusive VIP Bar Access
RIVERVIEW COURTYARD (VIP)
• VIP Seating
• Access to VIP Dinner Buffet
6–8 pm, inside Trout River Grill
• Exclusive VIP Bar Access
WATERING HOLE
• Cocktails, Beer, and Wine
• Live Band
BAMBOO FOREST
• Silent Auction Checkout from 9–10 pm
ASIA GARDENS
• DJ
• Casino-Style Games under Orchid Pavilion
• Receive Casino Vouchers. Voucher redemption at 9 pm.
• Open Seating
• Food and Drink Vendors
RIVERVIEW GARDENS
• Save the Manatee Club
• Jacksonville Jaguars Giveaways
• Living Shoreline Project
SOUTH MAIN PATH
• Food and Drink Vendors
• Animal Ambassador Encounters
• Food and Drink Vendors
Please drink responsibly. Last call for alcohol is at 9 pm. Bar service concludes at 9:30 pm.
Map on both pages Riverview Gardens
South Main Path
Orchid Pavilion
Trout River Grill Patio
Watering Hole
Additional restrooms in Range of the Jaguar
Sponsors
Marie Breslin
Leslie and Henry Berghoef
Vendors
FOOD
Hawkers Asian Street Food
V Pizza & Sidecar
Chophouse 13
Joseph’s Pizza
Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse
Anthony’s Gourmet Catering
4 Rivers Smokehouse
Whit’s Frozen Custard Jax Beach
Puff N’ Stuff Catering
Blackfly the Restaurant
Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamery
Copelands
Graze Craze
DRINKS
Sol Squeeze Mixers
Whole Body Coffee LLC
Gnarbucha
5 Sisters Sprit Vodka
Brackish Vodka
San Sebastian Winery
FLORISTS
Harris Teeter
Jacksonville Flower Market
Green Goddess Design
Rubye Rose Floral Design
LDD events
Best Buds
Glenn Certain Floral + Event Design
Simply Designed by Mary
OTHERS
Dj—Throttle Up Entertainment
Bold City Classics
Living Shoreline
Jacksonville Jaguars
Sight and Sound
Picture and Pose Photo Booth Rentals
Reel Thirsty Ice Machine Solutions
The Captain’s Circle
Fredrick J & Danielle Eliasson
Chuck and Jennifer Ged
Dr. Deanna Greer
Patty Howell
Betty Kaszula-Jamrock
Seri Kertzner
Jennifer Leggett
Mike and Renee Ravo Regions Bank
Susan & TJ Welsh
Pamela Phillips & Richard Zanghetti
Silent Auction
Featured Items
ATLANTA GETAWAY & AQUARIUM EXPERIENCE
Valued at $1,200
Enjoy a luxurious two-night stay at the Hilton Atlanta on the exclusive Business Class level, featuring premium amenities and breathtaking views of the city skyline. This package also includes admission for four to the renowned Georgia Aquarium—plus an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour offering a rare glimpse into the magic behind one of the world’s largest and most captivating aquatic collections.
3-COURSE DINNER IN THE LAND OF THE TIGER FOR 10 PEOPLE
Valued at $2,500
Indulge in a decadent three-course dinner experience for ten within the immersive ambiance of Land of the Tiger, complemented by an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour.
ORIGINAL JAGUAR ARTWORK
Valued at $1,200
This stunning artwork, depicting a majestic jaguar, was commissioned and previously owned by former Jacksonville Jaguars owners J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver. A symbol of strength and grace, this piece reflects the Weavers’ deep connection to the team and their dedication to the Jacksonville community.
How To Bid
Register and view items by scanning the code
Special Thanks
HONORARY CHAIRS
Coach Liam Coen & Ashley Coen
EXZOOBERATION COMMITTEE
Anne Bean, Kayla Bosco, Laura Edgecombe, Mike and Renee Favo, Sharon Guy, Julie Lovejoy, Jennifer Leggett, John Reed
SILENT AUCTION COMMITTEE
Susan Welsh, Sherry Poole, Suzanne Baw, Holly Baker
FLORISTS
Thank you to our talented florists for tonight’s beautiful centerpieces and special touches.
VOLUNTEERS
We couldn’t do this without our incredible volunteers!
