Congo Nights at the 43rd Annual Zoobilation Ball welcomed guests into an atmosphere that felt both cinematic and celebratory, a moment where San Antonio joined together in support of wildlife conservation and the continued evolution of one of the city’s most cherished cultural institutions. The forty-third annual Zoobilation Ball was presented by The Will Smith Foundation and carried a theme that honored the upcoming grand opening of Congo Falls, San Antonio Zoo’s new state of the art gorilla habitat. Designed to house seven magnificent gorillas in an immersive environment that invites awe and connection, Congo Falls represents a major step forward for conservation and education in the region. Congo Nights paid tribute to this milestone with a spirited nod to the vibrant style of the nineteen seventies, infusing the evening with nostalgia, imagination, and purpose.
The venue was transformed into a lush world of rainforest textures, deep green light, jewel toned accents, and shimmering metallic touches that created a dreamlike setting. Tropical foliage, mirrored table details, and gold place settings grounded the room, offering guests a sense of occasion from the moment they entered. The whimsical heart of the evening revealed itself early when a life size disco inspired gorilla descended from the ceiling during opening remarks by chairpersons Jamie and Travis Kowalski. Their leadership, joined by co-chair Sara Stumberg Walker, shaped a celebration infused with generosity and community spirit. The Kowalski family’s longstanding dedication to the zoo has helped propel meaningful advancements in conservation, and their guidance this year played an essential role in the success of the event.
The cocktail hour carried a vibrant pulse as guests moved through the space, enjoying cocktails, conversation, and lively performance moments. Dancers from Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s Professional Division shimmered through the crowd before taking the stage with an opening performance that lifted the energy even further. A Michael Jackson impersonator brought charismatic precision to the night, surprising guests with iconic routines that added layers of excitement to the live auction.
Throughout the evening, the thrill of bidding and the joy of shared purpose came together. Guests explored silent auction offerings and gathered for premier live auction experiences that reflected adventure, culinary excellence, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Chef driven culinary experiences, exclusive access to new zoo venues, wilderness retreats, and rare global travel opportunities created an atmosphere of aspiration and impact. With the help of auctioneer Cowboy Auctioneer and the dynamic energy of the performers, the room erupted in celebration with each winning bid.
Congo Nights became one of the most successful fundraising evenings in the event’s history, raising more than two point two million dollars and surpassing two million dollars for the fourth consecutive year. This achievement reflected not only the generosity of those present but the enduring belief that San Antonio Zoo plays a vital role in the cultural, educational, and ecological fabric of the city. The funds raised directly support the zoo’s mission of animal care, conservation, and education—empowering us to inspire our community to love, engage with, act for, and protect animals and the places they live, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the wonder of wildlife up close in meaningful and inspiring ways.
Behind the scenes, the atmosphere came together through the creative talents of Illusions Rentals and Designs, Rosemary’s Catering, Inspire Solutions for sound and audiovisual design, and the photographers of Quantum Lotus Labs led by Torry Sledge. Their contributions shaped an environment that felt both elevated and immersive, strengthening the sense of celebration that flowed through the night.
As the evening unfolded, Congo Nights revealed itself as more than a gala. It was a testament to what is possible when a city invests in the natural world and in the institutions that protect it. It celebrated the spirit of a community that shows up for one another, that embraces imagination, that understands the importance of stewardship, and that continues to build a future where conservation, culture, and connection thrive together.
Congo Nights was not simply a fundraiser. It was a vibrant expression of San Antonio at its best, united in generosity and inspired by the wild beauty that makes the zoo a place of wonder for all.