For those procrastinators who have yet to purchase their ZooFest After Dark tickets, a launch party will be hosted at the newly renovated MatrixFillmore for your purchasing convenience.  The fundraising fete will take place on Thursday, April 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to benefit the San Francisco Zoo. If you have yet to hit the newly renovated MatrixFillmore, then this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy cocktails in the historic yet modernized club. You might recall the formerly named Matrix club as the epicenter for great rock bands like Jefferson Airplane, the Grateful Dead, and The Doors.

Following the launch party, ZooFest After Dark, an annual gala hosted by the San Francisco Zoo, is scheduled to take place on April 30, 2010 on zoo grounds. This year’s theme “Wild About Parrots” will focus on raising funds to renovate the tropical aviary area. Yes, that’s right, San Francisco’s parrots need an updated home too, or did you think renovations were just for the hip rock and roll clubs? This year’s festivities will feature entertainment by Love Fool and a selection of delectable desserts.

Of course, we don’t have to tell you that this is one of those must go-to events of the season, after all, how often do we get to party with some real wild animals? So don’t forget to tell your friends this week’s happy hour is coming a little early, Thursday to be exact.

ZooFest Launch Party on Thursday is free for Zoo II members; $10 suggested donation for guests at the door, which includes complimentary Stoli vodka cocktails. (Admission fee waived with ZooFest After Dark ticket purchase).

MatrixFillmore is located at 3138 Fillmore St.