The third Sunday in July is National Ice Cream Day, and the San Francisco Zoo will mark the occasion with ice cream vendors from San Francisco and the Bay Area for "Scoop at the Zoo."
"Kids love animals, and they also love ice cream," said Rachel Eslick, the zoo's marketing communications director, "so we thought it would be a wonderful treat to offer Scoop at the Zoo this summer."
The event—which runs from 11–3 on July 15 and 16—will host seven ice-cream vendors near the Zoo's Lion House, including West Coast style-custard from local food truck Frozen Kuhsterd, Taiwanese shaved ices from Divisadero's Powder Shaved Snow, and popsicles from Polk Street's Bliss Pops.
"We're planning on bringing both dairy and dairy-free popsicles," said Mike Taylor, owner of Bliss Pop. He said dairy options would include toasted coconut and chocolate fudgesicle, while dairy-free options include organic mango and organic strawberry.
Others from around the Bay Area include ice creameries Three Twins, based in Petaluma, and San Jose's Twisted Chill.
"The vendors are some of our personal local favorites," said Eslick, "and we’re sweet on the idea of partnering with Bay Area-based businesses.”
San Francisco residents who bring proof of residency will receive a discount on Zoo admission ($20/Adult, $17/Seniors, $14/Children 4-14, Free/Children 3 and under).
