THE BEASTLY FEAST RETURNS WITH “GALA IN THE GROVE”

Norfolk Southern serves as Presenting Sponsor on Zoo Atlanta’s most inspiring evening of the year

One of the Southeast’s most anticipated galas returns on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Beastly Feast presented by Norfolk Southern. Sophisticated elegance, a one-of-a-kind locale, and a celebrated silent auction are signatures of Zoo Atlanta’s largest annual fundraiser.

Guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on an evening stroll through the Zoo, followed by a seated dinner from Zoo Atlanta’s premier caterer, Proof of the Pudding; dancing in the Zoo’s Grand Pavilion, spectacularly appointed by Tony Brewer; and a silent auction featuring travel adventures, jewelry, art, sports and cultural opportunities, Zoo experiences, and more.

Event Co-Chairs are Steve Goodman and Meredith and Jay Caiafa. Event Committee members are Tony Brewer; Jena and Billy Dunham; Sandra Edwards; Tammy Farley; Ashley Heintz; Carli Huband; Cathy and Richard Levy; Kim Lyman; Sophie Merven; Peggy Roth and Charlie Eagle; Stefanie Roth; Lia Santos; and Matthew Simon-Schumann.

“The Beastly Feast is a legacy event celebrating the longtime tradition of the support and generosity shown to Zoo Atlanta by our philanthropic community. For decades, friends and supporters of Zoo Atlanta and its mission have gathered at this inspiring evening,” said Raymond B. King, President and CEO. “We are deeply grateful to our Presenting Sponsor, Norfolk Southern, for their significant commitment to conservation, education, and their community.”

Proceeds of the Beastly Feast benefit Zoo Atlanta’s education programs and conservation programs and partnerships for species and their habitats here at home and around the world.

“At Norfolk Southern, we believe strong communities are built through meaningful partnerships,” said Kim Lyman, Norfolk Southern’s Assistant Vice President of Information Technology and Zoo Atlanta Board Member. “Beastly Feast is a powerful celebration of purpose—uniting people who are deeply committed to conservation, education, and Zoo Atlanta’s critical role in protecting wildlife around the world. We are proud to serve as Presenting Sponsor of an event where the support generated creates lasting impact for our region and far beyond.”

To reserve tables or tickets or to support the event as a Beastly Backer, visit the Beastly Feast event page here on zooatlanta.org.

Pictured are front, left to right – Steve Goodman (Co-Chair); Meredith Caiafa (Co-Chair); Raymond King (President and CEO); Sandra Edwards; and Cathy Levy. Pictured at back, left to right – Kim Lyman; Jena Dunham; Peggy Roth; Charlie Eagle; Sophie Merven; Tony Brewer; Matthew Simon-Schumann; and Richard Levy. Not pictured: Jay Caiafa (Co-Chair); Billy Dunham; Tammy Farley; Ashley Heintz; Carli Huband; Stephanie Roth; and Lia Santos.

MEDIA CONTACT:  
Rachel Davis
Director of Communications
rdavis@zooatlanta.org  
404.624.2812 

Gavin Johnson
Public Relations Manager
404.624.5980
gjohnson@zooatlanta.org  

ABOUT: About Zoo Atlanta 
A proud accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the gold standard for animal care and welfare, Zoo Atlanta has a mission to save wildlife and their habitats through conservation, research, education, and engaging experiences. The Zoo is home to hundreds of animals representing more than 200 species from around the world, many of them endangered or critically endangered. Highlights include a transformed African Savanna featuring expanded habitats for African elephants, giraffes, zebras, ostrich, warthogs, meerkats, and rhinos; one of North America’s largest populations of great apes; and a global center of excellence for the care and study of reptiles and amphibians. Recent transformations include a newly updated African lion complex, opened in April 2025, and the state-of-the-art Rollins Animal Health Center, completed in 2024. For more information, visit zooatlanta.org.