The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is set to host its anticipated “WineDown with Wildlife” event on Saturday, March 22, from 5-9 p.m., offering fine wines, craft beer, and wildlife conservation against a Sonoran Desert sunset. This annual fundraiser transforms the museum grounds into an after-hours space where guests can walk desert paths with drink in hand while supporting local conservation efforts. Ticket options range from $35 for designated driver general admission to $115 for the full VIP experience, with Desert Museum members enjoying a slight discount on VIP tickets at $105.
As evening falls on the desert, attendees will have the opportunity to encounter nocturnal creatures, enjoy food offerings, and sip selections from seven featured wineries including A. Toraño Wines, Arizona Hops and Vines, and Page Springs Cellars. The event has become a popular tradition for Tucson locals and visitors, regularly selling out in advance. Museum officials emphasize that this combination of drinks, food, and conservation offers a chance to experience the Sonoran Desert while contributing to programs that protect its ecosystem.
- Visitors enjoying a serene evening of wine tasting at the ‘WineDown with Wildlife’ event, set against the backdrop of the Sonoran Desert. Source: @matthewboomer – tucsonfoodie.com
The vendor lineup promises something for every palate, featuring seven wineries alongside craft breweries and beverage providers. Barrio Brewing Co., Cider Corps, and Corbett Brewing will pour their signature brews, while innovative options like Parch and Ray Ray’s Sonoran Spirit Tea provide non-alcoholic alternatives. The culinary experience includes six food vendors: Beyond Bread, Black Market Barbecue, The Curry Pot, and Ensenada Street Food serving diverse menu options as guests walk the illuminated museum pathways.
Entertainment flows throughout the evening with VIP ticket holders enjoying early entry at 5 p.m., live music by Unified Field Theory from 5:30-8:30 p.m., and special animal enrichment activities scheduled throughout the night. Wildlife enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Ocelot Enrichment at Cat Canyon at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Live Animal Program in the Warden Oasis Theater from 7-8 p.m. that’s open to all attendees. The Bobcat Enrichment at 7:30 p.m. provides another opportunity to see these creatures up close as they interact with specially designed environmental elements under the darkening desert sky.
- Exploring the unique blend of conservation and culinary delight at the ‘WineDown with Wildlife’ event, bridging the gap between nature lovers and gourmet enthusiasts. Source: @matthewboomer – tucsonfoodie.com
Prospective attendees should note several important logistics before planning their evening. The event is strictly 21 and over, with valid ID required upon entry, and day-of tickets will incur a $10 premium if the event hasn’t already sold out. Baby strollers are prohibited throughout the venue to ensure the safety of both guests and animals. Museum officials strongly emphasize transportation planning, as cell service in the desert location can be unreliable, potentially complicating rideshare arrangements at the end of the night.
Given the remote location at 2021 N. Kinney Rd., organizers recommend scheduling rides in advance or arranging for a designated driver to ensure a smooth conclusion to the evening’s festivities. The special designated driver ticket options at both general admission and VIP levels reflect the museum’s commitment to responsible enjoyment of the wine and beer offerings. With the combination of limited cell service and the event’s popularity, advance planning is essential for those looking to experience this blend of conservation awareness and culinary experience in one of the Southwest’s most distinctive natural settings.
