Roar & Pour FAQs

What time does the event start?

Gates will open at 5:30pm.  

Entry is via both Main Gate and Rail Gate. Both gates will remain open for the duration of the event. Late entry is permitted. 

When will the event finish?  

The event will conclude at 9:30pm.

Will animal areas be open? 

Yes, all animal areas will be open on the night until 7:00pm (excluding the Platypus House). There will be three keeper talks (Gorillas at 6pm, Giraffes at 6.20pm, Lions at 6.50pm) throughout the event. 

How does the event impact the animals? 

Animal welfare is our top priority. We carefully plan the event layout and activities to minimise disruptions to our animals. Our animals have choice and control regarding their individual environments. Our dedicated animal care team closely monitors all animals before, during and after the event. 

Can I come to the zoo during the day? 

If you wish to visit Melbourne Zoo during the day, you must purchase a day ticket separately or use your Zoos Victoria Membership. Daytime zoo admission is not included in the Roar and Pour ticket.   

If I come to the zoo during the day, can I stay in the grounds when the zoo closes to the general public?

No, if you have a Roar and Pour ticket and come to Melbourne Zoo during the day you will need to exit the grounds by 5:00pm and re-enter by having your Roar and Pour ticket scanned at 5:30pm when gates open.  

What can I bring?  

Picnic blankets, picnic hampers, camp chairs, umbrellas, food and non-alcoholic drinks are permitted. Please ensure that any non-alcoholic drinks are in fully sealed containers. You can also bring empty drink bottles to fill onsite from our water stations. Bag checks will be conducted upon entry. 

What can’t I bring?  

To make sure that our visitors, staff, volunteers and the animals that live at Melbourne Zoo are safe and happy, we ask that you do not bring the following items. 

  • Audio or musical equipment that can disturb our animals (e.g. whistles, speakers etc) 

  • Balls, balloons, bicycles, drones, scooters (excluding mobility scooters), skateboards, roller blades or motorised devices. 

  • Any illegal substances. 

  • Pets (excluding certified and registered authority service animals. Please call 1300 966 784 to arrange this) 

  • Tents, gazebos and lawn chairs. 

 BYO alcohol is strictly prohibited for Roar and Pour, bag checks will be conducted upon entry. 

Is the event accessible? 

Roar and Pour is held throughout the Zoo grounds, with some uneven surfaces, gravel paths and inclines that may be challenging for some mobility aids. While most areas are accessible, some areas may be difficult to navigate. Please note the main event area is held on a grassed area. If you need any assistance on the night, please see one of our friendly staff members. 

For any further questions on accessibility, please click here. 

Is smoking allowed? 

No, smoking, vaping and the use of e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited within the Zoo. Smoking is permitted outside the Zoo walls; you can collect a passout at the gates. 

Can I get a passout?  

Yes, your wristband serves as your passout. You must show your wristband to security on staff upon re-entry. 

I don’t want to drive, what is the best way to get to Roar & Pour?  

The zoo is accessible by public transport by both Train and Tram More Info Here 

We encourage all visitors planning to drink to plan their journey ahead of the event, and travel to and from Melbourne Zoo by either public transport, rideshare or with a designated driver. 

What happens if it rains?  

Roar and Pour will proceed rain, hail or shine. Zoos Victoria will monitor the weather in the lead up to the event. The event will only be cancelled in the event of extreme weather and at the discretion of Zoos Victoria.  

What if the event is cancelled, do I get a refund?  

In the unlikely situation that Zoos Victoria cancel the event, all ticket holders will be refunded (excluding any booking and handling fees issued by our ticketing provider OZtixs.) 

Can I buy tickets at the gate?  

Tickets will only be available on the night if the event is not sold out. We encourage all members and visitors to pre-purchase tickets to avoid disappointment.  

Can children come?  

Children are welcome. Children 17 and under are free. Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.  

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event? 

There is no age limit to attend Roar and Pour, however proof of age will be required upon entry so please bring your ID. Any young persons who do not present proof of age identification or are under the age 18 will receive an ‘Under 18’ wristband. 

RSA certified persons may still request proof of age at any point during the event.  

I’ve lost/misplaced my ticket 
For any ticketing issues, please contact Oztix via info@oztix.com.au  

Do I have to be a Zoo member to attend? 

No, everyone is welcome to attend Roar and Pour. However, Zoo Members will receive a discount on tickets to the event when providing their Membership number when purchasing tickets. 

I have a ticket for Friday night, can I come Saturday instead? 

Tickets to Roar and Pour are only valid for the date they are purchased for and is stated on the ticket, tickets are non-transferrable. 

How does my ticket purchase support wildlife? 

Zoos Victoria is a non-for-profit organisation. Each time you donate, buy a memento form one of our zoo shops, become a member, or purchase tickets to an event like Roar and Pour, you’re helping us Fight Extinction and secure a future rich in wildlife. 

To learn more about our story, click here 

Can I walk around the zoo with alcohol? 

No, alcohol is only permitted in the event area (Rail Gate lawns). 

 
How can I contact Melbourne Zoo for more information?

For any further inquiries, please contact the Zoos Victoria Customer Engagement Team on 03 9340 2788 or via email contact@zoo.org.au

How do I buy beverages and food? 

Roar and Pour will operate as a cashless event.  

Can I bring my own food?  

Yes! However, there will also be a range of food options for purchase at the event. 

How will beverages be served?  

Upon entry every guest will receive a 285ml reusable cup that can be used at all vendors. Cans will also be available for purchase. No glass is permitted onsite. 

Will there be non-alcoholic beverages available? 

Yes, some vendors will have on offer non-alcoholic beverages, the Main Bar will also have an extensive range of non-alcoholic beverages 

Will there be tasting samples? 

Yes! Beverage samples will be available at most vendors (at the discretion of the vendor).