Bella the jaguar paced in her enclosure as patrons began to fill Reid Park Zoo on one of its Summer Safari Nights in June.

Even wild animals are getting into the Fourth of July spirit.

Reid Park Zoo is set to celebrate Independence Day with its annual “Red, White and Zoo” day by offering a special admission discount to military personnel and veterans.

On July 4 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., the zoo will provide free daytime admission to active duty, reserve and guard members, veterans, and retirees of the military, upon presentation of military, VA, or retiree ID.

Up to six family members can enjoy discounted admission at $5 each, with no requirement for the military member to be present.

During the visit, guests will have the opportunity to see some of Tucson’s wildest residents — more than 250 animals from around the world — as well as special animal enrichment activities.

The schedule includes highlights such as Flight Connection Aviary Bug Toss Feeding and Keeper Chat at 9 a.m., an Otter Ice Treat and Keeper Chat at 9:30 a.m., and a Lion Keeper Chat at 10:30 a.m.

Typically, admission to Reid Park Zoo costs $10.50 for adults (ages 15-61), $8.50 for seniors (62 and above), $6.50 for children (2-14), and is free for children ages 2 and under.

Military personnel can also get a 20% discount on a one-year annual membership. Contact the zoo’s membership office at 520-881-4753 for details. The military discount cannot be combined with other offers, discounts or promotions.

The Reid Park Zoo and Tucson Community gathered to celebrate Yebonga, Reid Park Zoo's Southern White Rhino, on Saturday April 15, 2023. Yebonga turned 50 years old, a milestone for her species as typically white rhino's live only into their late 30's. To celebrate, Yebonga's care team arraigned some of her favorite snacks like hay mixed with rosemary into a festive "50," and also made her a veggie ice cake. More information about Yebonga and her species can be found at reidparkzoo.org. Video Courtesy Reid Park Zoo

Penzi, the youngest elephant at the Reid Park Zoo, celebrated her 3rd birthday on April 7, 2023. The zoo held a celebration that featured cupcakes for attendees, arts and activities and a birthday card for Tucsonans to sign. Penzi and her herd were treated to lettuce and vegetable treats and a frozen veggie ice cake. Video by Pascal Albright / Arizona Daily Star


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Eddie Celaya is a breaking news reporter and host of the “Here Weed Go!” podcast. He graduated from Pima Community College and the University of Arizona and has been with the Arizona Daily Star since May 2019.