For Immediate Release: October 1, 2026
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Announces Fall and Winter Lineup of Can’t-Miss Experiences
COLUMBIA, S.C., October 1, 2026 —Riverbanks Zoo and Garden invites the community to make meaningful memories this fall and winter through inclusive experiences, family traditions, hands-on workshops, and a prehistoric adventure in the Botanical Garden. From Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors to the return of Boo at the Zoo and Wild Lights, Riverbanks’ fourth-quarter calendar offers opportunities for guests of all ages to connect with wildlife, nature, and one another.
“Every season at Riverbanks is an opportunity to create meaningful connections—between families, with nature, and with the wildlife we are all working to protect,” said Tommy Stringfellow, president and CEO of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “This year’s seasonal experiences invite our community to explore, create, celebrate, and make new traditions together, all while supporting a mission that reaches far beyond our gates.”
Toucan Tuesdays Supports Neighbors in Need
Riverbanks guests once again showed their generosity during the 2026 Toucan Tuesdays food drive, collecting 1,433 pounds of food for Harvest Hope Food Bank. Those contributions will help provide approximately 1,194 meals for individuals and families throughout the community.
“We are grateful to our partner Riverbanks Zoo and Garden for helping us bring awareness to food insecurity through their Toucan Tuesdays promotion,” said Sy Hughes, CEO of Harvest Hope Food Bank. “Together, through the generosity of Riverbanks guests, we are able to provide 1,194 meals to our South Carolina neighbors.”
Riverbanks Earns Top Honors in The State’s Best 2026
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden was once again named the Number 1 Gold winner for Best Attraction and Number. 1 Gold winner for Best Family Attraction in The State’s Best 2026 awards. The honors, chosen by readers, recognize Riverbanks’ commitment to exceptional animal care, inspiring conservation action, and memorable experiences for generations of guests.
Calendar of Events:
Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors
Open now through January 4, 2027: For the first time since 2019, Dinosaurs Around the World has returned to Riverbanks in a specially constructed outdoor exhibition. Guests can travel back in time on a dinosaur adventure through the Botanical Garden, where towering dinosaurs, immersive soundscapes, and engaging storytelling bring a dramatically different prehistoric Earth to life. Visitors can ride the Saluda Skyride above the river and treetops on their way to the Garden for this larger-than-life experience. The exhibition is included with daytime admission or membership.
Sensory-Friendly Day at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
Tuesday, October 13, 2026, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.: Riverbanks continues its commitment to inclusivity with a sensory-friendly day designed to offer a welcoming, enjoyable visit for guests with sensory sensitivities. Guests are encouraged to connect with visiting community partners, enjoy reduced music volume throughout the Zoo and Garden, and learn about year-round resources available through Guest Relations. The event is included with general admission or membership.
Boo at the Zoo presented by Prisma Health Children’s Hospital
October 16–30, 2026, 6–9 p.m.: Riverbanks’ popular Halloween tradition returns with 15 nights of not-too-spooky fun for the whole family. Guests can enjoy trick-or-treat stations, Ray’s Moonlight Magic, the Eeky Freaky DJ Dance Party, carousel rides, themed railroad journeys, and Haunted Hideaway private igloo rentals. Children are encouraged to wear costumes; adult costume safety guidelines apply.
Longleaf Pine Ornament Workshop
Saturday, November 7, 2026, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.: Join Catawba artist Teresa Dunlap for a hands-on basketry workshop inspired by local natural materials. Participants will learn introductory pine-needle hand-stitching and coiling techniques while creating a one-of-a-kind ornament to take home. All supplies are included. Ticket prices are $50 for members and $60 for the general public.
Wild Lights presented by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Select nights, November 20, 2026–January 10, 2027, 5–9 p.m.: Step into an illuminated wildlife safari as Wild Lights transforms Riverbanks with nature-inspired lanterns, dazzling light displays, interactive experiences, and festive photo opportunities. Seasonal favorites include nightly snowfall, private igloo rentals, and visits with Santa through December 23. Tickets go on sale November 2, and advance purchase is strongly recommended.
Holiday Wreath Workshop
Saturday, December 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.: Create a distinctive holiday wreath using freshly cut greenery from Riverbanks’ campus. Each participant will receive a grapevine wreath base, an assortment of greenery, and a selection of natural materials to design a personalized decoration for a door or table. Tickets are $45 for members and $55 for the general public.
More Holiday Magic Is on the Way
Guests are encouraged to keep an eye out for a brand-new holiday event coming to Riverbanks this season. Details will be announced soon.
For event details, tickets, workshop registration, and additional seasonal programming, visit Riverbanks Zoo and Garden online.
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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.