This Black Friday, the Gulf Breeze Zoo invites the community to experience a day of wildlife adventure while giving back to children in need. On Friday, Nov. 28, the Zoo will offer 50% off admission for every guest who brings a qualifying toy donation to support the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program.
The donation drive is part of the national organization’s 78th annual holiday campaign, which delivers more than just toys, it brings hope, dignity and joy to children facing hardship. For a child in crisis, a toy isn’t just a gift, it’s a message they are loved and remembered.
Since 2012, the Gulf Breeze Zoo has proudly partnered with Toys for Tots to help create brighter holidays for families across Santa Rosa and Escambia counties.
“A visit to the Zoo is always a special day, and on this day it becomes something more, a way to bring joy to another child who may not otherwise receive a gift this holiday season,” said Cassidy Mazzone, Gulf Breeze Zoo Director. “It’s a fun and simple act of kindness that can ripple far beyond our gates.”
“For more than 40 years, the Gulf Breeze Zoo has been part of this community, and every year we’re reminded how generous our guests truly are,” said Eric Mogensen, Zoofari Parks CEO. “It’s that incredible spirit of giving that helps make the season brighter for so many local children.”
Each guest may receive a discounted admission with the donation of one new, unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more. Purchase of new annual memberships are not eligible for the discount.
Acceptable toys will also be available for purchase in Admissions. All donated toys are distributed locally by the Marine Corps Reserve, ensuring every gift makes a direct impact in the surrounding community.
The Zoo will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the last admission at 3 p.m. For more information, visit www.gbzoo.com/event/toys-for-tots or call 866.620.1825.
About Gulf Breeze Zoo
The Gulf Breeze Zoo is one of four zoological facilities operated by the Zoofari Parks, LLC, alongside the Alabama Safari Park, the Virginia Safari Park and the Texas Zoofari Park. Together, the parks have provided conservation donations supporting projects in more than 135 countries worldwide.
The Gulf Coast Area’s award-winning Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals, many of them threatened and endangered. The Zoo is privately owned and receives no state or federal tax support. Through admissions and animal encounters, every guest contributes to conservation programs.
The Zoo opens at 9 a.m. daily and is located just off Highway 98. Visit www.GBZoo.com for event updates, seasonal hours and more.
About Zoofari Parks
Zoofari Parks—through its Virginia Safari Park, Gulf Breeze Zoo, Alabama Safari Park and Texas Zoofari Park—is dedicated to wildlife conservation through public education, captive breeding programs, habitat preservation and direct financial support of projects in the field. Funding for conservation programs is made possible through the continued support of zoo guests. Conservation is fundamental in our daily operations and visitors are encouraged to join us in making a difference on this journey.
