The World Famous San Diego Zoo presents: Nighttime Zoo: Fiesta de las Caras, or "Party of the Faces". This special summer event celebrates the cultural heritage of California as well as Central and South America through demonstrations of native art, music, and dance, held every evening from June 23 to September 3. Headlining the festival is TALAMASCA—Jungle Myths and Legends, an Aztec-themed show that features stilt walkers, jaguars, and monkeys.
The true novelty of this event, however, is that you get to be in the Zoo at night. All the nocturnal animals are up and about. Stalking through the shadows, the big cats are an impressive sight making you almost forget—but be thankful for—the metal fence separating your flesh from their jaws.
Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle are recommended due to the hilly terrain, but the only must-have for this event is a date. There's just something romantic about walking hand in hand through a jungle rainforest, spying glimpses of exotic animals. The soft lights from fairy strands illuminate your way as you wind past playful monkeys, otters and polar bears. With most of the crowd gone for the day it's easy to believe you have the whole place to yourselves—and if the roar of the lions get your hearts racing, there are plenty of dark, secluded places to steal quiet moments.
The seasonal park hours are from 9am - 8pm, but they'll let you hang out until 9 before they start rounding everyone up. The regular admission is $33 for adults but the season pass is a steal at $71 individual, $89 for a couple, and it includes admission to the Wild Animal Park as well.
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