The Denver Zoo's jungle boogie 2009

Singles Safari mixer turns into hottest hunt in town

August 14, 2009

When Metromix signed on to help out with the Denver Zoo's Singles Safari mixer, planners were hoping a few hundred singles tired of bushwhacking through the local bar scene might stop by for a night of jungle-themed drinking, dancing and socializing. By 8 p.m. or so on Friday, it was clear that we had all underestimated locals' love of our furry friends (and free vodka).

More than 1,000 people — single and otherwise — flooded the zoo for what evolved into a end-of-summer blowout. Scenesters ranging from barely legal to retirement age walked with the animals while solving a scavenger hunt that had them exploring the deepest reaches of the park. Local musician Rob Drabkin, sporting a prodigious Sideshow Bob afro and some truly impressive finger-picking skills, provided the soundtrack back at base camp as attendees exchanged phone numbers at a furious rate.

By the time the night ended, partiers were already looking forward to future safaris, as well as other events such as Brew at the Zoo and Zoo Lights.