Jackson Zoo Announces Blue Bell Ice Cream Social with the City With Soul Fundraiser July 16

The Jackson Zoo has announced its premier summer event of 2022, the Blue Bell Ice Cream Social with the City With Soul, to be held on Saturday, July 16, from 11 am until 3 pm.

The event, presented by Visit Jackson, is a fundraiser for the Jackson Zoo's "reZOOvenation" efforts.

The event will feature eight Blue Bell Ice Cream flavors, half vanilla-based and half chocolate-based, with sundae toppings if desired. There will also be Blue Bell Orange Sherbet, watermelon slices, and cotton candy, all while supplies last. Additional activities include Discovery Encounters with the JZKeepers AAZK Chapter, antics with Inky the Clown, SnapHappy face painting, free carousel rides, a KidZone with Bounce-A-Roo water slide and inflatables, local groups including the Jackson Showboats and Skyhawks Sports Academy, and the Jackson Zoo Splash Pad. The ice cream is courtesy of Blue Bell Creameries of Byram, and all the activities are provided by Visit Jackson.

The Blue Bell Ice Cream Social is a new spin on the classic ice cream safari. Instead of a competition between scoopers, the public can enjoy time with volunteer celebrity scoopers made up of our local US Veterans, US Army, US Navy, US National Guard, law enforcement officers, and firefighters.

Previous "pro" scoopers from our local television, radio, print and digital media outlets will be there to support them in an atmosphere of fun and relaxation. Keeping current health concerns in mind, the event is outdoors and will encourage social distancing. Masks are welcome but not required.

"We are really excited to be able to bring this kind of event back to the Jackson Zoo's annual schedule," said Ison B. Harris, Jr., City of Jackson Parks and Recreation Director. "We are always expanding on the number of quality opportunities for families to get out and enjoy themselves and their city. Not only is this event fun, but it also allows people to see what we've accomplished, giving them a chance to support us as we continue moving forward."

After a successful management transition to the City of Jackson Parks and Recreation Department and the ongoing recovery from the effects of the COVID pandemic, the JZ staff continues to work towards being fully operational. Thanks to the sponsorship of Blue Bell and Visit Jackson, all funds raised will go towards new animal acquisitions and future exhibits.

"Blue Bell is happy to support the Jackson Zoo and the City of Jackson for this worthwhile endeavor," said Tim McLaurin, Branch Manager for Blue Bell Creameries, LP. "This event is always fun and exciting with families and friends enjoying Blue Bell Ice Cream at our Jackson Zoo."

"The Blue Bell Ice Cream event has always been one of the Jackson Zoo staff's favorites," said Parks and Recreation Deputy Director and Zoo Curator David Wetzel. "Some families only visit the zoo once or twice a year, and this event is often that day. We are thankful to Blue Bell Creameries and Visit Jackson for making it possible to offer free ice cream, celebrate our community, and naturally, showcase our wildlife."

Tickets are $13 for ages 13 and up, $10 for ages 2 to 12 years old, and children under two years old are free. Credit or debit card users can purchase tickets online at jacksonzoo.org or get tickets at the Jackson Zoo Admissions with cash.