š š§āļø Maryland Zoo Zoomerang 2026 Wildlife Ice Sculptures and Live Ice Carving
- Malissa Romero
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
One of the most unique parts of Maryland Zoo Zoomerang 2026 was the opportunity to experience the Zoo after hours. Guests enjoyed food and drinks from local restaurants while watching penguins glide through the water just steps away. Throughout the evening, live entertainment, artists, and animal encounters helped transform the Zoo into a one-of-a-kind celebration of its 150th Anniversary gala celebration, while also introducing guests to the Zoo's new red panda habitat.
To help guests escape the summer heat, The Ice God team helped create the Penguin Ice Lounge, a cool gathering space featuring custom wildlife ice sculptures and a larger-than-life ice throne. While the nearly 100-degree temperatures quickly softened some of the finer carving details, the sculptures became part of the experience as guests watched them slowly transform throughout the night. The massive ice throne, however, held its shape remarkably well and remained a popular photo opportunity from the first guest to the last.
One of the night's highlights was a live ice carving performance by Master Sculptor Angelito "Lito" Baban. Battling temperatures approaching 100 degrees, Lito transformed blocks of ice into a striking tiger sculpture while guests watched the artwork take shape in real time. As the heat continued to work against him, the tiger gradually slimmed down throughout the evening, becoming a reminder that ice carving is as much a performance as it is an art form. The finished sculpture was impressive, but watching the skill, problem-solving, and craftsmanship unfold live was the real experience.
We're proud to support events that bring the Baltimore community together, and Zoomerang is a perfect example. As the Maryland Zoo's signature fundraising gala, the event helps support wildlife conservation, education, and animal care. To learn more about the Maryland Zoo's conservation efforts and mission, visit their website.
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