The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has announced a three-year-long exclusive partnership with Velvet Ice Cream that makes them the official hand-dipped ice cream provider for the zoo.

The partnership also makes Velvet the presenting partner for the birthday party program held at the zoo, and the Zoombezi Bay Summer Nights event series.

“As we round out July—National Ice Cream Month—it is only fitting that we announce our partnership with Velvet Ice Cream, an iconic Central Ohio brand. We’ve enjoyed Velvet Ice Cream having a presence at our property for over 25 years and it is wonderful to continue this partnership as we both focus on family fun and shared special moments,” Tom Schmid, President/CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay, said.

Velvet's hand-dipped ice cream will be available at four locations scattered across the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay properties.

“When I think of both the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Velvet Ice Cream, the word that immediately comes to mind is family,” Velvet CEO, Luconda Dager, said. “Both of our organizations take great pride in making lasting memories and traditions for people of all ages and we could not be more proud to partner with the Zoo over the next three years and hopefully many more to come.”

According to officials, as a part of this partnership, the Columbus Zoo and Velvet Ice Cream will be running a joint social media campaign highlighting the birthday party options and offering a free birthday party, for up to 30 guests, to one lucky follower.

The last Summer Nights event of the season is Friday, July 29.