Cool Off with Free Ice Cream and Wild Encounters at CARD’s Nature Center Ice Cream Social

August 4, 2025

Two kids smiling, one in a yellow dress, the other holding ice cream, outdoors with people and trees in the background. — *Kids enjoy a free scoop of ice cream at the Nature Center Ice Cream Social*

Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) invites the community to beat the heat and celebrate the end of summer at the Nature Center Ice Cream Social, happening Saturday, August 16th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Chico Creek Nature Center in Bidwell Park. This free, family-friendly event offers a sweet blend of outdoor adventure, hands-on learning, and a delicious scoop of Shubert’s Ice Cream.

Guests will enjoy animal encounters, guided nature walks, bounce houses, arts and crafts, face painting, and interactive activities with local partners including the Honeybee Discovery Center and the Butte County Mobile Library. Attendees can also explore the Janeece Webb Living Animal Museum, home to a variety of rescued and resident animals that serve as ambassadors for local wildlife education.

“This is such an exciting opportunity to introduce the community to some of the amazing new animals we’ve welcomed to the Nature Center,” said Francesca Shaffer, CARD’s Recreation Supervisor for Nature Programming. “Edgar the raven and our chinchilla duo, Felix and Oliver, are incredibly engaging, and events like this are a great way for families to connect with nature and learn together.”

The Nature Center Ice Cream Social is proudly supported by CARD’s generous sponsors: Race Communications (platinum sponsor), Members 1st Credit Union, and Culligan of Chico (gold sponsors). To learn more about sponsoring CARD events, visit chicorec.gov/sponsor.

Whether you’re a long-time Nature Center visitor or discovering it for the first time, this event promises a morning full of discovery, creativity, and community fun. Don’t forget to grab your free scoop of Shubert’s Ice Cream while supplies last!

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th Street, Chico, CA
Cost: Free admission!

For more information, visit chicorec.gov/ice-cream, contact CARD at info@chicorec.gov, or call 530-895-4711. Stay connected with CARD on Facebook and Instagram @chicorec for updates!

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About Chico Area Recreation & Park District

Established in 1948, the Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) is a California Special District dedicated to enriching the community through diverse recreational opportunities. CARD brings friends and families together to create joyful experiences and lasting memories. It oversees 17 community and neighborhood parks, four community centers, a swimming pool, the Chico Creek Nature Center, and more. CARD offers a wide variety of sports, classes, camps, and special events designed for all ages. Discover more about CARD at chicorec.gov.