This summer, Crestwood residents may see a familiar, furry face popping up at city events: Cliff the polar bear is back in South County.

Crestwood’s mascot made his return recently, showing up to the Splashtacular Summer Kickoff at the Crestwood Aquatic Center on May 23, following the groundbreaking of the new community center. Locals and children can get their picture taken with the mascot when they spot him.

As a white polar bear, “Cliff” is a reference to one of Crestwood’s beloved parks, Whitecliff Park. The bear made his first appearance in the 1980s, when he would show up at various city events, but was eventually used only at summer camps and eventually fell out of use altogether.

Expect to see Cliff — and stop and say “hi” — at city events throughout the year and at the aquatic center. He’ll be present at Cliff’s Kids Triathlon on June 29, which begins at 8 a.m. at the Crestwood Aquatic Center.