Toucan Tuesdays returns to Riverbanks Zoo

Toucan Tuesdays returning to Riverbanks Zoo

Photo: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden website

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is partnering with Harvest Hope Food Bank for the return of Toucan Tuesdays.

Zoo officials say on Tuesday, June 10, guests who visit Riverbanks will receive buy-one-get-one admission to the park and buy-one-get-one regular sized ICEEs with a donation of two cans (or bags and boxes) of non-perishable food items.

Toucan Tuesdays will take place 10 consecutive Tuesdays through August 12.

Donation bins will be located at the Zoo and Garden entrances, and there is no limit to the number of Tuesdays guests can participate for discounted admission.

“We are always looking for ways to give back and contribute to the community that has supported us for over 50 years now,” says Tommy Stringfellow, president and CEO of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “If we can in any way alleviate hunger concerns while still promoting conservation, this partnership is a win-win for everyone involved.”

Officials say Harvest Hope’s most needed items include canned vegetables, canned proteins like chicken and tuna, one-pound bags of dried beans, and one-pound boxes of pasta.

The goal this summer is to collect 5,000 pounds of food, which would equate to about 6,000 meals.

“If we can in any way alleviate hunger concerns while still promoting conservation, this partnership is a win-win for everyone involved,” continues Stringfellow.

In 2024, the generosity of zoo guests generated 2,457 pounds of food for Harvest Hope.

Zoo officials say the promotion applies to general admission rates only (purchase one admission and get the second for equal or lesser value free; Explorer wristbands and Riverbanks’ memberships are not included).