Brew at the Zoo 2026
The Ultimate Wildlife Conservation Fundraiser
Presented by Whataburger
Join Gladys Porter Zoo and presenting sponsor Whataburger for the 12th Annual Brew at the Zoo in Brownsville, Texas! This 21+ event combines craft beer, local flavors, and high-energy entertainment to support vital wildlife conservation efforts.
- Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
- Time: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Live music continues until 11:00 p.m.)
- Location: Gladys Porter Zoo, Brownsville, Texas
Experience the Feast with the Beasts
Sample a curated selection of 24 premium and craft beers from L&F Distributors while 24 of the Rio Grande Valley’s best restaurants compete for the People’s Choice Award. We are incredibly grateful to these partners for donating their time and delicious food to support wildlife conservation:
- BBQ & Comfort Favorites: Texas Roadhouse, Reyna’s BBQ & Cocina, Barnyard Burgers, and Black Bear Diner.
- International Flavors: Mod Dang Thai, Teriyaki Madness, Jolie Petite, and Ramses Tacos & Tequila.
- Pub Grub & Wings: Brewskies Pub & Eatery, Hooters, Buffalo Wild Wings to Go, Wing Barn, and Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.
- Tacos & Coastal Eats: Taqueria la Bravo, Chef Ricardo’s Tacos and Beer, and El Amigo Seafood.
- Quick Bites & Fast Casual: Dave’s Hot Chicken, Wienerschnitzel, Applebee’s, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, H-E-B Flaming Bird, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe.
- Special Guest: 2025 People’s Choice Award Winner: Yo Momma’s Cookin’!
Refreshment Station
In addition to our curated craft beer selection, upgrade your aesthetic with these must try specialties:
- Whataburger “Whatafreshers”: Try the Southwest-inspired Prickly Pear Raspberry or the Strawberry Hibiscus with real fruit inclusions.
- Los Trevi Drive-Thru: Authentic Estrella Jalisco micheladas from the iconic Michelada Combi.
High-Energy Entertainment Zones
- Sound & Stages: Live sets from Back to Riverdale, The Reynalds, and Reserve, plus an EDM dance party with DJ Akasha.
- The Spectacle: Catch the Reinas de Saba fire dancing sets in the Amphitheater.
- The Social Yard: Friendly competition featuring an H-E-B Beer Pong Tournament, karaoke, and viral tabletop games like What Do You Meme.
- The Thrill Zone: Axe throwing, a mechanical bull, and the Soaring Eagle Zipline ($15.00 fee for General Admission).
- Digital Memories Zone: Capture the night at five curated selfie stations or our 360-degree photo booth.
Ticket Information
Brew at the Zoo is a 21+ event. Tickets sell out quickly—secure yours early!
- Pre-sale Tickets: $40.00
- At the Gate: $60.00 (if available)
- VIP Experience ($100.00): Limited to 100 guests. Includes fast-pass access to all lines, private stage-side seating, an animal feeding session, and a complimentary zipline ride.
Our Sponsors
This event is made possible by Whataburger, the City of Brownsville, Visit Brownsville, L&F Distributors, H-E-B, SpaceX, and the Brownsville Public Utilities Board.
Stay in Brownsville
Brownsville is the perfect family-friendly getaway with a multitude of attractions within walking distance of the Zoo. Support the Gladys Porter Zoo by using this link to make your hotel reservation.