Bring a Can, Get a Deal — and Help a Neighbor in Need
Starting this Tuesday, June 10, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is bringing back its popular Toucan Tuesdays promotion in partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank. For the next ten Tuesdays — through August 12 — visitors can enjoy buy-one, get-one free admission and BOGO ICEEs with the donation of two non-perishable food items.
Donation bins will be located at both the Zoo and Garden entrances, and there’s no limit to how many Tuesdays you can take advantage of the deal.
“We are always looking for ways to give back and contribute to the community that has supported us for over 50 years now,” said Tommy Stringfellow, Riverbanks’ president and CEO. “If we can in any way alleviate hunger concerns while still promoting conservation, this partnership is a win-win for everyone involved.”
What to Donate
Harvest Hope is especially in need of:
-
Canned vegetables
-
Canned proteins (like chicken and tuna)
-
1-pound bags of dried beans
-
1-pound boxes of pasta
The goal this summer? Collect 5,000 pounds of food — enough to provide around 6,000 meals for local families.
“Summer is a time for families to explore and have fun outdoors,” said Erinn Rowe, CEO of Harvest Hope. “But for many South Carolina families — especially one in five children — summer can also mean increased hunger. That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with Riverbanks again.”
Past Impact
Despite a COVID pause in 2020 and 2021, Toucan Tuesdays bounced back strong. In 2024, guests donated 2,457 pounds of food. Since its launch in 2010, the promotion has collected a whopping 51,008 pounds of food for those in need.
Know Before You Go
-
Promotion dates: Every Tuesday, June 10 – August 12
-
Offer: BOGO general admission and BOGO regular-size ICEEs with two non-perishable food donations
-
Not valid on Explorer wristbands or with Zoo memberships
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a day at the Zoo while helping families across the Midlands — because giving back is always in season.