Time is on Irma Thomas‘ side once again. The soul queen’s Mother’s Day concerts at the zoo are a beloved tradition and this weekend she celebrates 30 years of doing the annual shows. She’ll accordingly receive a tribute from the zoo before she takes the stage with her longtime band the Professionals.

Irma Thomas at Jazz Fest 2013 | Photo by Kim Welsh

Fresh from crowd-pleasing appearances Jazz Fest, Irma Thomas returns to celebrate Mother’s Day at the zoo this Sunday, May 12. Music starts at 12:30pm with the Washboard Chaz Blues Trio, featuring the Tin Men member and mainstay of Chaz Fest. At 2:15 there’ll be a tribute for Thomas, who’ll be given honors including an oversized card that her fans at the show will be invited to sign. She’ll perform afterward and the show will wrap up at 5pm. Thomas’ shows are always different and these shows often feature the songs from her catalogue that speak from one mom to another.

Other attractions will include a crafts fair with mom-friendly homemade goods; and a drawing for Popeye’s gift certificates. Food tents will serve po-boys, jambalaya, turkey legs and other local delicacies. The Cool Zoo water park will also be open for an additional $8 charge. As per tradition moms get in free, but advance tickets are encouraged if you want to get past the lines.

[Irma Thomas at Audubon Zoo, Sunday, May 12. Gates open at 10am, admission $17.50 adults, $12 children, $13 seniors. Details and tickets available here.