Story and photography by Marcy Anderson Sanford

Since 1987, Zoofari has been the premier fundraising event for Zoo Knoxville. From the festive cocktail hour, silent auction and creative multi-course dinner to the highly-anticipated live auction, entertainment and dancing, Zoofari was a magical night to remember. Zoofari raises funds for the zoo’s education, conservation and animal care programs. This year’s theme, Vim and Venom highlighted some of the world’s most fascinating and misunderstood creatures—animals whose venom has played a role not just in ecosystems, but in groundbreaking medical research and gave attendees the opportunity to don their best reptile-inspired party wear.