John Ball Zoo fundraiser to include food, performers

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — John Ball Zoo is set to host its largest fundraiser of the year in June.

RendeZoo 2024: Illuminate the Night will start at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 14. Organizers say the event, sponsored by Bissell, will feature activities like zookeeper chats and animal visits, food from six local restaurants and live entertainment, including dueling pianos and roaming performers.

Proceeds will support the zoo’s mission of educating families and protecting the natural world, organizers say.

“RendeZoo is an amazing opportunity to support John Ball Zoo and the important work being done to educate our community, care for hundreds of animal species and protect wildlife and wild places,” said Megan Ellinger, development events manager at John Ball Zoo, in a statement. “We encourage our community to join us for an exciting, fun evening against the beautiful backdrop of the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival because we want to celebrate those who make this important conservation work possible.”

General admission tickets are $150 and can be purchased in person at the zoo or online at jbzoo.org/events/rendezoo .

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