EleFest

In honor of World Elephant Day, join us as we celebrate the Zoo’s newest Asian elephant calf, Linh Mai, with a three-day festival packed with culture, conservation and community!

Visit the Zoo from Friday, Aug. 7, through Sunday, Aug. 9, and enjoy a mix of free family-friendly activities and special ticketed programs, including: an adults-only Elephant Happy Hour, peaceful morning Yoga with Elephants session (includes a free elephant towel), live cultural performances, hands-on activity stations throughout the Zoo, and special animal demonstrations and keeper talks. Bring your family, spend a day with the elephant herd, and learn how Zoo science supports wildlife conservation around the world.

Public Programming

Somapa Thai Dance Group Time: Saturday, August 8, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Location: Lion/Tiger Hill Experience traditional Thai dance performances celebrating Asian heritage. Free and open to the public.

DC Public Library (DCPL) Time: Saturday, August 8, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Location: Outside Visitors Center (Asia Trail Sign) The DC Public Library joins us with their book truck for special elephant-themed story times and activities for young readers as part of their Discover Summer initiative. Free and open to all.

Chalk Riot Time: Sunday, August 9, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Location: Great Meadow Chalk Riot turns streets into canvases for community expression. Partake in creating a colorful chalk mural; this family-friendly activity is free and open to the public.

Rhythmaya Dance Group Time: Sunday, August 9, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Location: Lion/Tiger Hill Enjoy a vibrant South Indian dance performance before joining in for a short interactive workshop. Free and open to the public.

Paid Programming

EleFest Happy Hour — Friday, Aug. 7 (SOLD OUT) Time: 4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (last entry 6 p.m.) Location: Elephant Patio and Outpost Kick off EleFest weekend with an adults-only Happy Hour. Sip a specialty elephant-themed cocktail, test your wildlife knowledge with animal trivia, and enjoy live DJ entertainment in a lively after-hours atmosphere at the Zoo. This 21+ event supports the new baby elephant, Linh Mai. Tickets were $25 and included one free drink ticket. Last entry was at 6 p.m.

Yoga With Elephants — Saturday, Aug. 8 & Sunday, Aug. 9 (SOLD OUT) Two sessions each day: 7 a.m. – 7:45 a.m. and 8 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. Location: Elephant Community Center Begin your day with a one-of-a-kind wellness experience alongside the Zoo’s elephant herd. These peaceful morning yoga sessions offered a calming opportunity to connect with the animals.

Donations help make the Zoo's work with Asian elephants possible.