This past May, there was a big to-do at the Audubon Zoo, which brought a night of “wild” entertainment to one of New Orleans’ most beloved institutions. Begun in the 1970s in the midst of a state-of-the-art transformation that would garner Audubon national recognition, the “Whitney Zoo-to-Do” is one of the city’s premier annual fundraisers.
This year’s “Whitney Zoo-to-Do,” coupled with the “Zoo-to-Do for Kids,” raised a record-breaking $1.2 million.
The evening’s success would not have been possible without the support of Olivia Manning, who graciously served as event chairman. Mrs. Manning, as well as the entire Manning family, attended the event and helped make the night an unforgettable experience.
The 2013 “Whitney Zoo-to-Do” transformed Audubon Zoo into a magical and enchanting place, with whimsical colored lights illuminating every corner and world-class entertainment that had even the animals grooving in their habitats. The nationally renowned band Björn Again kept guests on their feet, as well as Phat Hat, Ingrid Lucia and Jaywalkers Brass Band, who all provided the perfect excuse to dance the night away.
In addition to dancing, guests placed bids on a spectacular auction that featured luxurious prizes, such as a diamond, pearl and sapphire necklace from Friend & Company Fine Jewelers valued at $10,000 and a South African safari adventure, and a raffle for a 2013 Lexus ES300h generously donated by Lexus of New Orleans.
Some of New Orleans’ finest restaurants provided delectable dining fare, which included smoked eye of round roast by Langenstein’s, bananas Foster by Brennan’s, crawfish gumbo by Clancy’s and chargrilled oysters by Oceana Grill.
Event at a Glance
What: “Whitney Zoo-to-Do,” benefiting Audubon Nature Institute
When: Friday, May 3
Where: Audubon Zoo
