I have waited around 25 years to attend. I just never thought I could splurge. This year, I splurged and from now on, I will attend. It was so fun, even in the cold and rain. There was tons of food, even more alcohol and it was all free, except the price of the ticket to get in. People on here complaining about the price, don't go. I waited until I felt like I could afford it. It wasn't upscale. There were people dressed in anything and everything. I wore jeans and two shirts because of the cold and rain. The lines do get long but they go pretty fast and everyone I encountered was friendly and having a great time. The bands were good too. Suite 68 and the Jared Brown Band were really good. I am going to make sure I go every year now. Don't forget that we have one of the nicest zoos in the U.S. They do a lot of conservation work. This event is their biggest fund raiser. To me, it was well worth the price. I also found it quite impressive that so many businesses donated their time, food, alcohol, and cigars to this event. It was amazing! Great job everyone and THANK YOU!