LINCOLN PARK — The Lincoln Park Zoo is reopening next month for the first time since January.
The zoo will reopen to the general public on March 5 with limited capacity and strict social-distancing guidelines, according to a press release from the zoo. Reservations can be made starting Feb. 28 by using Eventbrite or calling (312) 742-2000.
Zoo members still will have the chance to visit ahead of the public reopening during a members-only weekend Feb. 27–28.
The reopening weekend will kick off with its annual “Beers & Bears” fundraiser put on by the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo, which celebrates the zoo awakening from its “hibernation.”
The fundraiser features an exclusive beer from DryHop Brewers, 3155 N. Broadway, a virtual improv show by the Second City on March 7 at 8 p.m., and a chance to be among the first to visit the zoo when it reopens.
For $120, people can buy the fundraiser’s celebration pack, which also includes swag, guaranteed reservations to the zoo on March 6 and access to its fire pits and s’more making kits. Tickets are on sale now at the zoo’s Eventbrite page.
The Second City show and DryHop beer can also be purchased individually for $30 and $15 respectively.
This year’s beer is a one-of-a-kind Milkshake IPA named “Grin and Bear It,” which pays homage to the American black bear’s diet with nodes of huckleberry, hazelnut and honey, according to the zoo.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will help support the zoo as it faces the financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic.
Jake Wittich is a Report for America corps member covering Lakeview, Lincoln Park and LGBTQ communities across the city for Block Club Chicago.
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