The Palm Beach Zoo has extended its popular Kids Free promotion through Aug. 10, giving South Florida families additional time to enjoy discounted summer visits. Under the program, up to four children ages 3 to 12 receive free admission with the purchase of one adult ticket. Amanda Joiner, the zoo's chief marketing and technology officer, shared the updates during WPTV's "Shining A Light" segment from the zoo Monday morning. Joiner said the extension is designed to help local families enjoy affordable outings during the hottest stretch of summer while still supporting the zoo's conservation mission. Zoo officials emphasized that families still receive the full zoo experience through the promotion, including access to exhibits, shaded walkways and animal encounters. The zoo is also encouraging visitors to stay cool with indoor spaces, shaded pathways and frozen treats available throughout the park.
The zoo also announced that its koala joey is officially a boy and now has a name: Bonza. Joiner said that's Aussie slang for awesome or excellent. Zoo staff members from departments ranging from accounting to marketing helped document and share the koala family's journey with the public, according to officials. Palm Beach Zoo also announced the return of its Wild Night Out series, an adults-only after-hours experience happening on the last Saturdays of July, August and September. The themed nights include Paws & Santa Claus in July, Tails & Touchdowns in August and Decades After Dark in September. The events will feature live entertainment, themed activities and performances from bands including Whiskey Six and Snapback. July's event will also serve as an early preview of this year's Zoo Lights celebration. Palm Beach Zoo is located at 1301 Summit Blvd.