GUZZLE WITH YOUR MUZZLE
Brew at the L.A. Zoo returns after a pandemic hiatus, pairing local libations with animal education
Beer and cider lovers can take a sip on the wild side as Brew at the L.A. Zoo returns tonight after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 10th annual event may even turn a few guests into animal experts, as it includes talks and Q&A sessions with animal keepers.
“This is a really not-to-miss opportunity to explore the zoo, enjoy the lush grounds and look at the wildlife while strolling around and sampling from more than 50 breweries and cider makers,” said Emily Marrin, marketing and communications director for the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association.
The breweries and cider makers will set up booths along some of the pathways of the 113-acre
venue. Local outfits like Inglewood’s Three Weavers Brewing, Los Angeles Ale Works and Frog Town Brewery will be pouring, as well as out-of-towners including San Diego’s Belching Beaver and Vista’s Bear Roots Brewing. DJs and an ’80s cover band will provide music, while food trucks will serve pub-style grub.
As patrons enjoy an array of pilsners, porters, stouts and various other styles of beer, they can check out animals in their enclosures including koalas, kangaroos, flamingos, alligators, jaguars, elephants and orangutans. Since many of the animals go to bed early, not all will be visible during the event, Marrin noted.
Animal keepers will be available to share information and fun facts about zoo residents.
“Generally the keepers will talk about the animals’ diet, their behaviors, how we provide them with enrichment, and then they’ll answer questions from the public,” Marrin said.
Some of the animal keeper talks will include feedings of the animals.
“There will be a jaguar feeding and keeper talk, which will be very special because the jaguars, being cats, like to keep to themselves and they sleep a lot,” she said. “So evening is a great time for activity for the jaguar, and they will put the food right up near the public viewing area.”