ROYAL OAK, Mich., May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Tickets for the Detroit Zoological Society's annual fundraising event, Sunset at the Zoo, are now on sale! Don't miss this year's wildest fun-filled night of live entertainment, dancing, live auction and a spectacular strolling supper. The event, presented by General Motors, will take place on Friday, June 17, 2005 from 7- 11 p.m., rain or shine, at the Detroit Zoo.

This elegant summer chic fundraiser features a strolling supper from over 40 of the area's finest dining establishments including P.F. Chang's China Bistro, Rattlesnake and The Whitney. Guests can dance the night away and enjoy live entertainment by the Jerry Ross Band. Party-goers will have access to the Zoo's award-winning exhibits and take in the amazing wildlife as the sun goes down.

Guests won't want to pass up the opportunity to participate in the fundraiser's live auction which includes bidding items such as Super Bowl XL tickets and a trip to the 2006 Winter Olympic Games in Italy. Those who are feeling lucky may purchase "Sunset Keys" for $25 each and attempt to unlock a prize box. If your key fits, you can take home the fabulous prize inside!

Don't be left out of this spectacular gala! Tickets range from $125 to $500 per person. A VIP champagne reception presented by Bank One is available for those purchasing higher priced tickets. Tickets are available for purchase by phone at (248) 541-5717 ext. 3740.

Sunset at the Zoo is also supported by many other wonderful sponsors, including American Express. Proceeds from this year's event will benefit the Zoo's new white rhinoceros exhibit.

The Detroit Zoological Institute is comprised of the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Zoo. The Institute, founded in 1928, is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife. Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Detroit Zoo is open year round with several indoor viewing areas. The Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696 in Royal Oak. Admission is $11.00 for adults 13 to 61; $9.00 for senior citizens 62 and older and $7.00 for students ages 2 to 12; and children under two are free. For more information call (248) 398-0900 or visit http://www.detroitzoo.org/ . The Belle Isle Nature Zoo is located on Belle Isle Park in Detroit. The Nature Zoo is currently under construction but some family programming takes place on the weekends with advance reservations by calling (313) 852-4056. The Detroit Zoological Society works to promote the general welfare and interests of the Detroit Zoological Institute. Financial support has allowed the Zoo to expand its animal collection, open new exhibits, and implement major beautification projects. To help the Detroit Zoological Society through financial support, partnership opportunities, membership, or volunteering, please call (248) 541-5717.

CONTACT: Rana Kozouz of Detroit Zoological Institute, +1-248-398-0903,
ext. 3234, rkozouz@detroitzoo.org

Web site: http://www.detroitzoo.org/