Families delight in a day at Riverbanks Zoo as Free Fridays returns, featuring winter festivities and the new giraffe, Tahini.
Columbia’s Riverbanks Zoo is excited to announce the return of Free Fridays for residents of Richland and Lexington counties starting this January. Visitors can enjoy the zoo without any admission fees all January and February with proof of residency. Additionally, the zoo will feature the magical Wild Lights event from January 8-11, showcasing large lantern displays and family-friendly activities. The zoo has also welcomed a new 2-year-old reticulated giraffe named Tahini, who is quickly becoming a star of the zoo. Don’t miss out on these wonderful events!
Hey, Columbia! Exciting news is buzzing around Riverbanks Zoo, and it’s all about fun, family, and furry friends! Starting up again this January, the zoo has reinstated its popular Free Fridays, allowing local residents of Richland and Lexington counties to explore its wonders without spending a dime!
Every Friday throughout the months of January and February, residents can stroll into the zoo *absolutely free*. All you need is proof of residency, which can be easily shown with your driver’s license or a property tax statement. So grab the family and enjoy a delightful day watching animals and learning about wildlife conservation at zero cost!
What’s even more exciting? If you’re looking for something magical to do, Riverbanks Zoo is hosting its enchanting Wild Lights event from January 8 to January 11, after the sun goes down. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the zoo will transform into a wonderland filled with over 60 new large lantern displays that will dazzle guests of all ages! Plus, there’ll be plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained.
For those who might need a quieter experience, the zoo has teamed up with the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs to host a sensory-friendly night during the Wild Lights event. This special evening aims to make the experience enjoyable for guests who may feel overwhelmed by noise or crowds.
As if that’s not enough, the excitement continues with Central Carolina Comic Con happening at the state fairgrounds on January 11 and 12. It will feature panels, vendors, and special guests like Gates McFadden and Michael Jai White! So, if you’re a fan of comics, movies, or all things geek, this is another fantastic event to mark on your calendar!
Now, let’s talk about the main attraction! Riverbanks Zoo has welcomed a *brand new arrival*—a 2-year-old reticulated giraffe named **Tahini**, who recently journeyed from Zoo Miami on December 23, 2024. She’s settling in beautifully and seems to be forming a friendship with Bruce, the zoo’s 12-year-old male giraffe. Isn’t that heartwarming?
Tahini is the fourth giraffe at Riverbanks Zoo following the unfortunate passings of two beloved giraffes, Charlie and Isabelle, last year. Even though there’s a bit of a wait, guests will have the chance to see this adorable giraffe in her outdoor habitat in about two months, depending on the weather conditions. Riverbanks Zoo takes its role in animal conservation seriously and is proud to be part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ *Species Survival Plan* aimed at promoting genetic diversity.
So there you have it, Columbia! With *Free Fridays*, magical *Wild Lights*, and the heartwarming addition of a new giraffe, Riverbanks Zoo is bursting with excitement this January. Mark your calendars and get ready for a fantastic time with family and friends as you explore the wonders of wildlife!
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