The Wildlife Conservation Society Gala Takes the Central Park Zoo by Storm

A downpour couldn’t put a damper on the Wildlife Conservation Society’s annual gala on Tuesday night. Held at the Central Park Zoo, the evening kicked off with drinks in the central garden. Guests sipped champagne and paused for photo ops before turning their attention to the sea lion pool. There, keepers led a feeding and training session that was well worth braving a drizzle in cocktail attire.

The festivities continued under a dry tent with tropical decor, and the evening’s honoree Jeff Bezos was celebrated for his commitment to conservation through his work with the Bezos Earth Fund. “We have to live in harmony with nature,” the Amazon founder said in his passionate speech, delivered in between courses of a sustainable and locally-sourced dinner. After indulging in a bit of strawberry panna cotta, attendees hit the dance floor in full force.