Did you know? Though they may look a little like primates, sloths are part of the order Pilosa and are more closely related to anteaters and armadillos. Deforestation and development...
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Thank you for supporting Sunset Affair: Sea Change. For 17 years, this event has been the premier summer gala in the Twin Cities, celebrating one of the state’s most beloved destinations and an exceptional free zoo and botanical garden.
Thanks to all who attended Sunset Affair 2018: Sea Change and Provid Films for capturing the photos!
Como Friends’ Fund-A-Need:
Imagine – All this for Free
Como is one of the last free zoos and botanical gardens in the country! It is a welcoming, urban oasis that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together. Visitors explore the wonders of nature, and discover a lasting love of plants and animals – all for free, 365 days a year!
Imagine the excitement of a second grader hopping off the bus for their first field trip to Como
Or the wonderment of a family learning about the natural curiosity of gorillas at a new outdoor training center
Or the enthusiasm of a teen hearing from a zookeeper or gardener about the importance of global species preservation
Or the awe of a small child having their first up close encounter with a
sea lion in the new Como Harbor
And, imagine – all these Como memories being made and experienced for free, to all visitors from every walk of life, every day of the year.
The Spring Sunken Garden Flower show at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory gives visitors an early taste of spring. The shortest of the five Sunken Garden Flower Shows, the Spring Show...
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Sunset Affair Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sunset Affair?
Sunset Affair is the annual summer fundraising gala hosted by Como Friends to benefit Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. In 2017, the event raised nearly $150,000 to benefit the plants, animals and people that depend on Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.
What does it cost?
Tickets to this popular event cost $250 for individual tickets ($300 for Patron Tickets), and $2,500 for a table of ten. The event also includes a limited number of Choice table options in a premier exhibit location on the grounds of the Como Zoo for $4,000 for a table of ten. The VIP option includes a private experience with Como’s own zookeepers, showcasing the unique plants and animals at Como.
When are tickets available?
Tickets can be reserved by calling Como Friends at, 651-487-8229 for Sunset Affair 2018.
What should I wear to Sunset Affair?
Dress cool and casual. Though dinner is served in our air-conditioned Visitor Center, many of the night’s activities will be outdoors where the potential for tropical temperatures calls for light fabrics, comfortable shoes, flowing dresses, and can’t-go-wrong khakis and capris. (In the event of severe weather, the party will move indoors.)
What about the Silent Auction?
Sunset Affair’s Silent Auction includes more than 300 unique items. For your convenience, Como Friends works with BidPal mobile bidding, allowing guests to bid for their favorite items directly from a smart phone. Information on items and the silent auction will be coming soon.
Where does the money go?
Sunset Affair is the largest fundraiser of the year for Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, attracting a sell-out crowd of more than 500 guests. Sunset Affair is produced by Como Friends, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire community generosity to advance Como Park Zoo and Conservatory as a destination where people from every walk of life can gather, learn and enjoy the natural world.
How can I get more information?
Call Como Friends at 651-487-8229 or email ComoMembership@comofriends.org.
Thank You to our 2018 Sponsors
Title Sponsor:
Presenting Sponsor:
Transportation Sponsor:
Contributing Sponsors:
Catering Sponsor:
Marketing Sponsor:
Printing Sponsor:
Travel Partners:
Photography by:
Learn More
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Como Friends at 15
The nonprofit fundraising force at Como celebrates a new milestone
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Sparky at 60
Minnesota’s favorite sea lion is still making a splash
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Jewel of Como
Celebrating a century at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
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Orangutan Conservation
Keeper Megan Elder preserves orangutans near and far
