Zoo Atlanta to Host 2026 Beastly Feast Gala with Norfolk Southern as Presenting Sponsor Supporting Conservation Initiatives

(IN SHORT) Zoo Atlanta will host its 2026 Beastly Feast gala on May 2, with Norfolk Southern serving as the Presenting Sponsor. The event is a key annual fundraiser supporting the zoo’s conservation and education initiatives, offering guests a unique experience that includes dining, entertainment, and a silent auction. The partnership highlights Norfolk Southern’s commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship, while the event itself continues a long-standing tradition of bringing together supporters dedicated to wildlife protection and public education.

(PRESS RELEASE) ATLANTA, GA, 2026-Apr-9 — /Travel PR News/ — Zoo Atlanta will host the 2026 edition of its flagship fundraising gala, the Beastly Feast, on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with Norfolk Southern serving as the Presenting Sponsor. The event continues to stand out as one of the Southeast’s most prominent social and philanthropic gatherings, bringing together supporters of wildlife conservation and education.

The evening will offer guests an immersive experience that blends sophistication with the zoo’s unique setting. Attendees will begin with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while strolling through the grounds, followed by a formal seated dinner prepared by Proof of the Pudding. The celebration will continue with dancing in the Grand Pavilion, designed by Tony Brewer, alongside a curated silent auction featuring travel experiences, fine art, jewelry, sports opportunities, and exclusive zoo-related items.

The event is co-chaired by Steve Goodman and Meredith Caiafa together with Jay Caiafa, supported by a committee of community leaders and contributors who help bring the event to life each year.

Raymond B. King, President and CEO of Zoo Atlanta, highlighted the event’s long-standing tradition as a celebration of the organisation’s philanthropic community and its continued dedication to conservation and education. He also acknowledged Norfolk Southern’s role in supporting these efforts through its sponsorship.

Funds raised during the Beastly Feast will support Zoo Atlanta’s educational programmes as well as its conservation initiatives and partnerships focused on protecting wildlife and natural habitats both locally and globally.

From Norfolk Southern’s perspective, the sponsorship reflects a broader commitment to community engagement and environmental responsibility. Kim Lyman, Assistant Vice President of Information Technology and a member of the Zoo Atlanta Board, noted that the event unites individuals who are passionate about conservation and education while reinforcing the zoo’s impact on wildlife protection.

Supporters interested in attending or contributing can reserve tickets, purchase tables, or participate as sponsors through Zoo Atlanta’s official website.

To reserve tables or tickets or to support the event as a Beastly Backer, visit the Beastly Feast event page here on zooatlanta.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Rachel Davis
Director of Communications
rdavis@zooatlanta.org 
404.624.2812 

Gavin Johnson
Public Relations Manager
404.624.5980
gjohnson@zooatlanta.org  

ABOUT: About Zoo Atlanta
A proud accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the gold standard for animal care and welfare, Zoo Atlanta has a mission to save wildlife and their habitats through conservation, research, education, and engaging experiences. The Zoo is home to hundreds of animals representing more than 200 species from around the world, many of them endangered or critically endangered. Highlights include a transformed African Savanna featuring expanded habitats for African elephants, giraffes, zebras, ostrich, warthogs, meerkats, and rhinos; one of North America’s largest populations of great apes; and a global center of excellence for the care and study of reptiles and amphibians. Recent transformations include a newly updated African lion complex, opened in April 2025, and the state-of-the-art Rollins Animal Health Center, completed in 2024. For more information, visit zooatlanta.org.  

SOURCE: Zoo Atlanta