Is this event for adults only?

Yes, all guests must be age 21 or older and will be asked to show ID at check-in.

How long is the event?

The scheduled run is approximately two hours: doors and tasting at 5:30 PM, followed by the animal mingle and trivia.

Are photos allowed during the animal mingle?

Photos are often allowed, but follow the educator's direction—no flash or disruptive behavior that might stress animals.

Are tickets refundable?

Ticket and refund policies vary by date; check the booking page for the specific event terms before purchase.

Is the event accessible?

Accessibility details were not provided in the listing; contact the Lehigh Valley Zoo directly to confirm accommodations.

Is parking available?

Parking information was not specified in the listing; arrive early and follow onsite signage for guest parking.

Wine, Whimsy, and Wildlife: Love Gone Wild at Lehigh Valley Zoo | Wine | Zoo

On winter evenings in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, the Lehigh Valley Zoo flips the script on typical date nights with Love Gone Wild, a two-hour adults-only event that pairs local wine and charcuterie with close encounters and lighthearted trivia. Guests gather in the zoo's event space beginning at 5:30 PM for tastings from regional wineries and a grazing spread, then move on to a twenty to thirty minute animal 'speed-date' led by an educator, followed by rounds of themed trivia. The rhythm is part tasting, part education, part playful competition—an accessible way to learn about birds, bees, and Species Survival Plans while socializing with other outdoor-minded adults. What makes Love Gone Wild stand out is its blending of a social night out with authentic conservation messaging. Rather than a passive behind-the-scenes tour, the animal mingle invites direct, interpreter-led interactions that illuminate how the zoo contributes to local and global recovery efforts. For visitors to the Lehigh Valley region, this is an unusual chance to experience living collections after hours, where the exhibits take on a different energy under warm lights and the campus feels both intimate and lively. The setting is straightforward: Lehigh Valley Zoo in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, a compact facility that emphasizes education and species stewardship. Expect close encounters with smaller ambassador animals, interpreter commentary about husbandry and SSP work, and brief hands-on moments timed to animal needs. The event runs roughly two hours and is strictly 21+, making it ideal for couples or groups of friends seeking an engaging evening without the bar scene. Practical notes: tickets are limited, arrive early to secure your place, and follow staff guidance on photography and animal interaction. Comfortable shoes and a light outer layer are sensible—the mingles can occur indoors or along short exterior paths and Pennsylvania weather in February is variable. Bring cashless payment for extra tastings or souvenirs and be prepared to show ID at check-in; all guests must be age 21 or older. Tickets sell out quickly—these evenings suit anyone who prefers conversation with a conservation angle, a relaxed tasting, and the novelty of animal encounters after dark. If you're staying in Schnecksville or the surrounding Lehigh Valley, add Love Gone Wild to a winter itinerary that might otherwise focus on restaurants or brewery tours—this event puts wildlife education front and center in a social, accessible format. Book early for the February dates and bring curiosity—Love Gone Wild is a reminder that local zoos can be lively public places for learning and connection. Expect staff to explain how each encounter supports Species Survival Plans and regional conservation partnerships, and consider pairing the evening with a daytime visit to see exhibits in daylight for contrast and to follow volunteer program calendar regularly.

About Lehigh Valley Zoo

Lehigh Valley Zoo, located in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, operates as a regional zoological attraction focused on animal encounters, conservation education, and family events. The Zoo offers a range of hands-on experiences including Penguin Encounter, Giraffe Encounter, Otter Encounter, and a West African Crowned Crane Encounter, plus seasonal events such as Breakfast with the Beasts, Zoostock, and the Conservation Gala. Membership gift certificates and tokens provide flexible ways to support the Zoo and enhance visits.

Experienced zookeepers lead guided programs and supervised encounters that allow visitors to feed, observe, and learn about animal behavior and conservation needs. Several offerings explicitly highlight conservation—Penguin Encounter educates about endangered African Penguins, and the Conservation Gala raises funds to protect wildlife and habitats. Event dates and times are publicly announced for specific programs, including scheduled dates for Breakfast with the Beasts and Zoostock.

The Zoo is part of community-focused programming in the Lehigh Valley region, hosting family-friendly activities and educational opportunities for all ages. Safety protocols and staff supervision guide interactive encounters to ensure animal welfare and guest safety. Tickets, membership certificates, and tokens are available for purchase and provide structured access to experiences, early entry events, and exclusive activities.

Lehigh Valley Zoo emphasizes accessible wildlife education, memorable up-close interactions, and ongoing conservation support. Visitors can plan visits around scheduled encounters, special events, and membership benefits while contributing to animal care and regional conservation initiatives.

The Zoo welcomes schools, families, and individual guests seeking educational outings, volunteer opportunities, and meaningful ways to engage with wildlife today.