A Night of Stars and Stripes at The Nashville Zoo’s Call of the Wild Dinner
The Nashville Zoo’s Call of the Wild Dinner seamlessly fused glamour with a deep appreciation for wildlife, captivating guests under a starlit sky. Highlighted by the presence of furry and feathered ambassadors, this event not only showcased the animals but also emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation.
On a clear spring evening, attendees were treated to a unique experience where the stars of the night included not just celebrities like the dazzling Benedict Cumberbunny — a Giant Continental rabbit — but also a pair of flamboyant flamingos and Hamish, the endearing Scottish Highland calf, who charmed everyone with his playful antics. The combination of these eclectic animal guests and the evening's attendees created a heartwarming atmosphere that celebrated both the beauty of nature and the mission of the zoo.
Co-chairs Clara and Wesley Belden and Lauren and Tee Isenhour orchestrated an evening filled with warmth, culminating in a delicious meal crafted by the Nashville Zoo’s culinary experts. Rick Schwartz, the zoo's president and CEO, expressed profound gratitude to the donors whose continued support has enabled the zoo to expand its exhibits, introducing new species such as monkeys and Komodo dragons. Upcoming projects, including the Leopard Forest, are set to house the rare Amur leopard, reflecting the zoo's vibrant future.
“Our dream, really, is to become a botanical garden as well as a zoological garden,” Schwartz shared, highlighting their ambitious plans that include planting around 25,000 tulips, signifying a blossoming vision beyond just animal conservation.
The post-dinner festivities peaked with electrifying performances by musical icons Brad Paisley and Will Hoge, creating lasting memories against the backdrop of firepits and sweet mini s’more tarts. The blend of warmth from the fire and the delightful music brought guests together, lingering amid the crisp air of the Nashville night.
This enchanting event not only served as a fundraiser but also reinforced the Nashville Zoo's commitment towards fostering an appreciation for wildlife and plant conservation. As the night closed, the impact of such gatherings became evident — not just in fundraising dollars but in fostering a community united by a shared love for animals and the environment.
What are your thoughts on the intertwining of conservation efforts with community events such as this? We invite you to share your reflections and hopes for the future of wildlife preservation in our comments below!
