Families invited for free zoo admission, naming of Folsom’s newest bear and Brother Bear on the big screen
Families looking for a unique way to kick off summer in Folsom are invited to the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary this Friday, June 20, for an evening that blends wildlife adventure with outdoor cinema—and the highly anticipated naming of a very special bear.
The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with extended evening hours at the zoo, offering guests a chance to visit the sanctuary’s resident animals during the cooler twilight hours. Among those animals are Herbie, the black bear who arrived earlier this year, and his longtime companion, a female Eurasian brown bear who was relocated with him from a wildlife sanctuary in Georgia. The two bears were previously rescued from substandard private ownership situations and have lived together for many years.
The female Eurasian brown bear represents a first for the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary. She is the only bear of her species ever housed at the facility and brings with her a unique story. While Herbie and the brown bear are not biologically related, Friends of Folsom Zoo explained to Folsom Times that they formed a close bond while living together at their previous home.
When the opportunity arose to relocate Herbie to Folsom, sanctuary staff were committed to keeping the two bears together, knowing their relationship would support a smooth transition to their new home. They now share a newly renovated, expanded habitat in the heart of the zoo, complete with climbing logs, a wading pool, and shade structures.
To celebrate the arrival of the brown bear, Friends of the Folsom Zoo Sanctuary launched a community-wide campaign allowing the public to help choose her name. Supporters participated by casting votes through a donation-based poll featuring three name finalists: Matilda, Petunia, and Magnolia. Each name was selected by the animal care team and reflects characteristics of the bear’s gentle, intelligent demeanor or her new home in California.
Voting closed earlier this week, and the winning name will be unveiled live during Friday night’s event. All proceeds from the campaign will directly support the bear’s care, habitat enhancements, and enrichment supplies.
Following the name reveal, the event continues next door at Kuntz Memorial Field with a free outdoor screening of Disney’s Brother Bear, beginning at 8:30 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks for a relaxed movie night under the stars. Admission to both the zoo and the movie is free.
The screening is presented in partnership with Folsom’s Palladio 16 Cinemas, joining with Folsom Parks & Recreation to bring this family-friendly movie night experience to the community as part of the city’s Summer Movie Night Series.
For more information and updates, visit the official Facebook event page or follow @FolsomParksAndRec on social media. For vendor or partnership inquiries, contact Frankie Nelson at fnelson@folsom.ca.us or 916-461-6614.
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