KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Zoo Knoxville held a new Pride-related event for the first time on Wednesday — Pride Night.
Tickets sold out for the event as members of the LGBTQ+ community, families and children filled the zoo to celebrate Pride Month. Music sounded through the zoo with festive food and drinks for anyone who managed to grab a ticket.
Attendees were invited to explore the Asian Trek and the zoo’s new Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Campus. Pride flags filled the zoo as attendees danced and enjoyed the company of friends.
“Personally, what brings me out here is just the general acceptance and the feeling,” said Jaeigh-olli Kovach, who attended the event. “Because Pride is more than just a big parade. It’s something inside you.”
Attendees had to reserve a spot ahead of the event. They could bring children under 3 years old without reserving admission, according to officials. Zoo members also needed to reserve a ticket to attend. Music also featured a local DJ, Chris Neal.