Sunset Affair

Sunset Affair Helpful Tips

• Read the material before attending so you have an idea of flow, activities and auction items. Forward the program and emails to your guests—or even better, give us their contact information so they can participate and experience all the pre-event and post event activities in real-time with you!

• Arrive by 6:00 p.m. to experience the entire offerings of Sunset Affair and have time to wander through the zoo to meet all the animals!

• Park in the Palm Lot, (near the Carousel) in the West Picnic Lot, (across from the Palm Lot and Midway Parkway) and along Midway Parkway or Estabrook Drive. Golf carts driven by volunteers from Xcel Energy will be circulating to give guests a speedy delivery to registration.

• Wear cool and comfortable clothing! The event is outside and is structured to be casual, fun and allow for walking through the zoo grounds. Light fabrics, flowing dresses, comfortable shoes and sunglasses are encouraged. No ball gowns, tuxedos or sport coats at Sunset Affair.

• Look at the map and stop by all the education stations. The Nature Walk teen volunteers, education staff, zookeepers and horticulturists have awesome knowledge to share and spend time putting together their informative stations. You can learn at Sunset Affair while enjoying a cool beverage!

• Have your cell phone charged in advance to take photos and bid on spectacular auction items. There is a charging station in the Visitor Center if you need it.

• After July14, log into BidPal and add your credit card before you arrive. It will streamline your entry at registration. You can purchase tickets for the fundraising games on this platform. You can also make a Fund-A-Mission donation on BidPal too.

• If you are bidding, consider making a Max Bid on your “must have” items so you don’t need to worry about last minute bidding. Max Bids set your limit, but you aren’t charged that amount unless the bidding reaches that limit!

• Have fun!

Sunset Affair 2026 will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

DINNER PROVIDED BY D’Amico Hospitality 

Sunset affair Menu

Amuse-bouche

Fried Truffle Risotto with Mushroom, Roasted Garlic and Chevre Mousse (V)

Mini Hugo Spritz Made with St Germain, Prosecco, Club Soda, Mint

Spirit-Free Hibiscus Agua Fresca

HORS D’OEUVRES STATIONS

Charcuterie Platter of Cured Meats, Assorted Mustards, Pickled Vegetables,
Toasted Baguette, Crackers

Classic Cheese Tasting Platter with Mostarda, Truffle Honey, Fig Jam, Baguette (V)

Smoked Gouda Gratin, Fresh Vegetables, Crostini (V)

Hummus Trio Platter: Lemon Garlic, Roasted Beet, Charred Poblano Herb with

Fresh Vegetables, Grilled Pita (DF, VV)

Caprese Skewers (GF, V)

Assorted Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce

Plated Dinner

First Course

Mixed Greens with Heirloom Grape Tomatoes, Shaved Pecorino, Candied Nuts, and Charred Tomato Vinaigrette (GF, V)

Fresh Baked Breads with Sweet Butter

Main Course

Duet of Grilled Beef Tenderloin and Miso-Glazed Sea Bass Served on Saffron Rice with a Napa and Bell Pepper Slaw (GF)

Vegetarian Option: Roasted Acorn Squash Served with Warm Quinoa and Vegetable Salad and Roasted Tomato Chermoula (GF, DF, VV)

Dessert

Meyer Lemon Panna Cotta with Italian Meringue, Wild Blueberries, and
Pistachio Shortbread (GF)

Dessert & Coffee Station

Individual Chocolate Brownies

French Macarons (GF)

Sunset Affair Logo Cookies

Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, and Hot Tea

If you have dietary concerns please contact events at: events@comofriends.org or call 651-487-8229