If you love great food, live music, and supporting a worthy cause, mark your calendar for February 8! The 4th annual Indigo Blues BBQ is returning to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, offering a day filled with blues tunes, mouthwatering BBQ, and an opportunity to support vital conservation efforts. Hosted by the Zoo’s Orianne Center for Indigo Conservation (OCIC), this exciting event blends community fun with education and a mission to protect Florida’s native wildlife.

Event Details: A Day of Fun, Food, and Music

The Indigo Blues BBQ will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, during the Zoo’s regular hours, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests can expect a variety of exciting activities, including:

• Live Blues Music: Groove to the sounds of two live music sets from local favorite band, The Smoking Jackets.
• BBQ Tasting Trail: Indulge in the ultimate BBQ experience by sampling delicious meats, sides, and desserts at three tasting stations. Trail passes are available for pre-purchase or a la carte onsite.
• Reptile Presentations: Learn about Florida’s native Eastern indigo snake during engaging presentations by expert staff.
• Raffles & Unique Activities: Participate in charity raffles, shop animal-created art, and take part in activities designed to raise awareness for conservation.

Why This Event Matters

The Indigo Blues BBQ is more than just a fun day out—it’s a celebration of conservation. Every ticket purchased and every BBQ bite enjoyed helps fund the vital work of the Orianne Center for Indigo Conservation (OCIC).

The OCIC is the only captive breeding facility in the U.S. dedicated to releasing offspring of the threatened Eastern indigo snake back into its natural habitat. Since its inception, the OCIC has worked with partners to release more than 300 snakes into the wild at locations such as the Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve and Alabama’s Conecuh National Forest. Additionally, the OCIC supports the reintroduction of the striped newt, another species vital to Florida’s ecosystem.

What’s Included in the Admission

General Zoo admission is required to attend the Indigo Blues BBQ and includes access to the event:

• Adults: $25.95
• Seniors (55+): $21.95
• Children (3-12): $19.95
• Children under 2: Free

Zoo Annual Passholders can attend for free with a suggested $2 donation to benefit the OCIC. For those looking to enhance their experience, BBQ Tasting Trail passes are available for an additional fee.

Discover the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Located in Sanford, Florida, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to over 350 animals and serves as a leader in wildlife conservation. From animal exhibits to interactive experiences, the Zoo aims to inspire visitors to take action for wildlife while enjoying unforgettable adventures.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Attend the Indigo Blues BBQ

The Indigo Blues BBQ is a unique event that combines delicious food, incredible music, and meaningful conservation efforts. By attending, you’ll not only enjoy a fun-filled day at the Central Florida Zoo but also contribute to the preservation of Florida’s native wildlife, like the Eastern indigo snake.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with your community, enjoy the best BBQ around, and make a difference. Gather your family and friends, and join us on February 8 for a day that’s as impactful as it is enjoyable.

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit here.