Prepare to dive into one of Birmingham’s most anticipated social events.

Zoo Gala ’26: Axolotl Adventures invites guests into an elegant underwater-inspired evening celebrating your Birmingham Zoo’s extraordinary new axolotl habitat. This year’s Honorary Chair, Ann Katholi, whose generosity made the habitat possible, will help host an unforgettable night in support of Zoo animal care and wildlife conservation at your Zoo.

Enjoy an exceptional culinary experience by Birmingham’s acclaimed Hot & Hot Fish Club, led by Chef Chris Hastings, alongside premium wines, signature cocktails, remarkable animal encounters, exciting live and online auctions, live entertainment, and dancing beneath an aquatic-inspired atmosphere.

This signature black-tie optional gala promises a spectacular evening of sophistication, celebration, and purpose.

Friday, September 18, 2026
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Cocktails & Animal Encounters — 6:00 p.m.
Seated Dinner — 7:30 p.m.
Live Auction & Dancing to Follow

Presented by First Horizon Bank

Zoo Gala Chairpersons
Daagye Hendricks Harvill • Tony Ankar • Crystal Witherspoon

Zoo Gala ’26 Honorary Chair
Ann Katholi

Black Tie Optional
Ages 21 & Over

Limited to 36 tables of eight.

Online Auction Opens Friday, September 11, 2026.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Axolotl Level — $20,000

Limited Availability

• Two tables of eight with premium wine service
• Exclusive Sundowner experience for eight featuring cocktails, dinner, and a private Zoo tour hosted by the Zoo President & CEO Chis Pfefferkorn and his wife Teresa
• Recognition in event media releases, eblasts, event signage, website, media interviews, and social media

Otters Level — $10,000

• One table of eight with premium wine service
• Private behind-the-scenes animal experience for eight with Zoo animal care professionals and the Birmingham Zoo animal of your choice based on availability
• Recognition in event media releases, eblasts, signage, and website

Monkey Island Level — $7,500

• One table of eight with premium wine service
• Private keeper chat for six featuring an animal of your choice based on availability
• Recognition in event media releases, eblasts, signage, and website

Lionfish Level — $5,000

• One table of eight with premium wine service
• Recognition in eblasts, signage, and website

Individual Seats — $750

Questions?
Contact Leigh Laser Collins
[email protected]
(205) 909-4562