For Immediate Release: October 1, 2025
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Unveils a Magical Fall and Winter Season
COLUMBIA, S.C., October 1, 2025 — Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is preparing an exciting lineup of fall and winter experiences, including a sensory-friendly day, family Halloween festivities, and the return of the Wild Lights celebration. These events aim to foster connection, promote conservation, and provide fun for all ages.
“We're eagerly anticipating sharing engaging experiences with our community, some new to Riverbanks along with old favorites as well," said Tommy Stringfellow, president and CEO at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. "Whether the goal is to celebrate nature with nostalgic toys or become immersed in a magical winter wonderland, each event is about connection, conservation, and fun.”
Toucan Tuesdays Delivers for the Community
The Zoo concluded another successful summer of Toucan Tuesdays, a ten-week partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank. Nearly 1,900 pounds of donated food resulted from guests bringing non-perishable items, securing buy-one-get-one admission and concessions. “We are grateful to our partner Riverbanks Zoo and Garden for helping us bring awareness to food insecurity through their Toucan Tuesdays promotion,” said Erinn Rowe, CEO of Harvest Hope Food Bank. “Together, through the generosity of the guests at Riverbanks, we are able to provide 2,275 meals to our South Carolina neighbors.”
Repeat Recognition: Best Attraction and Family Destination
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden captured gold for both Best Attraction and Best Family Attraction in The State’s Best 2025 awards. Voted on by readers of The State Newspaper, this recognition reflects Riverbanks’ ongoing dedication to animal care, innovative programming, and memorable guest experiences. The Zoo invites the community to celebrate the award by visiting this fall and winter.
Welcoming a New Giraffe, Kamari
This October, Riverbanks Zoo welcomes Kamari, a 1-year-old reticulated giraffe arriving from the Memphis Zoo. Weighing in at 830 pounds, Kamari is a new companion for Tahini and joins as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan to promote genetic diversity in giraffes. Kamari will undergo a period of acclimatization before being introduced to her outdoor habitat, supporting the Zoo’s mission of wildlife conservation and guest education.
Calendar of Signature Events
Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects® Made with LEGO® Bricks
Open now through February 20: This traveling exhibition features larger-than-life sculptures crafted entirely from LEGO® bricks that celebrate the beauty of nature and creativity. It is on display in the Riverbanks Botanical Garden as part of the special celebration marking the Garden’s 30th anniversary. Included with daytime admission or membership, the exhibit explores themes such as gardening, ecosystems, and the intersection of art and wildlife.
Sensory-Friendly Day at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 9:00am – 5:00pm: In partnership with the South Carolina Department of Disabilities & Special Needs, Riverbanks offers a sensory-friendly day, featuring quiet zones, lowered music, and staff trained to support guests with sensory sensitivities. The event is open to all with general admission or membership.
October 17 – 30 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm: Fourteen nights of not-too-spooky fun include trick-or-treat zones, Ray’s Moonlight Magic, the Eeky Freaky DJ Dance Party, carousel rides, themed railroad journeys, and Haunted Hideaway private igloo rentals. Costumes are encouraged for children, with safety guidelines applying to adult costumes.
Select nights, November 21 – January 11 from 5:00pm – 9:00pm: Celebrate the season with a stroll through the Zoo illuminated by over 60 new wildlife-inspired lantern displays, stunning illuminations and more. The event includes interactive elements, photo opportunities, visits with Santa (through December 23), nightly snowfall, and Winter Wonderland private igloo rentals. Ticket presales open November 1; advance purchase is strongly recommended.
Visit riverbanks.org for details on these and other signature events at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
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About Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to more than 3,000 magnificent and fascinating animals and one of America’s best public gardens. The Zoo opened on April 25, 1974, and for over five decades, has connected individuals, families and school children with the natural world. Riverbanks is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is recognized as a global leader in animal care and welfare, education, recreation, science and wildlife conservation. It is the mission of the Zoo and Garden to create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on wildlife and wild places. For more information, visit riverbanks.org.