A different kind of pride filled the Denver Zoo as guests arrived dressed for prom, ready to celebrate Pride Month after dark. With colorful flags welcoming visitors and a night full of music, fashion, and animal encounters ahead, Pride Prom showed that the zoo isn’t just a daytime destination.
For Jake Kubié, Director of Public Relations & Brand Communications, events like Pride Prom are part of showing guests that the zoo is a place for everyone.
“My biggest pet peeve is when people say they don’t visit because they don’t have kids or their kid has grown up,” Jake Kubié says. “I always say you don’t have to be a kid to love wildlife, and the zoo is a great place for a party.”
As summer temperatures rise, the Denver Zoo has started its lineup of after-hours events. From the adult-only Glowing Wild nights to the recent Pride Prom celebration, these events give guests a chance to experience the zoo in a whole new way.
Starting June 12 through August 1, the Denver Zoo will stay open until 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. This year’s events are part of the zoo’s 130th anniversary celebration featuring live performances, special events, and animal encounters throughout the day.
After-hours doesn’t mean the animals disappear. In fact, the evening can bring out a different side of the zoo. Guests can meet ambassador animals that are not normally out during regular hours and learn more about them up close.
Just like people, animals can become more active when the weather cools down. From playful behavior to extra vocal moments, the evening hours offer guests a chance to see these animals in a different light.
At Pride Prom, the animals weren’t the only sights to see. Guests lined up to show off their looks during the Pride Prom Fashion Show, walking the red carpet while the crowd cheered them on.
With Felony Misdemeanor, Miss Zarah, and Dustin Schlong as judges seated at the end of the runway, guests took their turn modeling their outfits. Some walked with confidence, some leaned into the fun of becoming a runway star, and others stepped out of their comfort zones. All were greeted with cheers and encouragement from the crowd and host Jessica L ‘Whor.
For those who didn’t want to hit the runway, there was still plenty to enjoy. Carousel Karaoke gave guests a chance to sing along while riding the Denver Zoo’s carousel. You never know who around you has a hidden talent until you’re sharing the moment with them. Just remember the carousel keeps moving, so dancing may require some balance!
While Pride Prom was the main attraction, some of the evening’s biggest stars had fur, scales, and shells. Guests had the opportunity to meet several of the Denver Zoo’s animal ambassadors up close, including animals that are not typically out during a regular visit. Animal care staff shared facts about each species, turning every encounter into a chance to learn something new. For a lucky few, some ambassadors could even be gently touched under staff supervision, creating a memorable experience that blended education with hands-on fun.
Photos by Alissha Rutherford
