The Smithsonian’s National Zoo elephants are always a popular attraction. And they will soon get even more time in the spotlight. The zoo is hosting “EleFest,” a three-day elephant festival, leading up to World Elephant Day on August 12.
Ticketed Elephant Festival Events
EleFest kicks off on Friday, August 7, with an adult (21+) happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 day-of. They include a complimentary elephant-themed batch cocktail, and commemorative 5-ounce wine glasses will be available for purchase. A DJ will provide entertainment, and guests can play wildlife trivia.
On Saturday, August 8, and Sunday, August 9, you can start your day with a yoga session near the herd. The zoo is offering two sessions per day, one from 7 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. and another from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m.
Tickets are $75 per person, and sessions are limited to 50 people. A free elephant-branded cooling towel is included, but guests should bring their own yoga mat and water bottle. The yoga event is recommended for ages 12 and up.
Free Programming
Throughout the weekend, the zoo will also host free, family-friendly programming. Guest will find elephant-themed activities, cultural experiences, and entertainment from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Some of the planned performances and activities include:
- Traditional Thai dances celebrating Asian heritage from the Somapa Thai Dance Group
- Elephant-themed story times and literary activities from the DC Public Library
- Community chalk mural activities by Chalk Riot
- South Indian dance performances and interactive workshop from the Rhythmaya Dance Group
Additional programming details and a full schedule of demonstrations will be on the Zoo’s website.
Visiting the Zoo
General zoo admission is free but does require a reserved entry pass for all guests. Parking passes are $30 in advance or $40 day-of. Parking spots are limited and often sell out during peak visiting periods.
Guests using ride-shares should be dropped off and picked up at the designated ride-share zone near the Connecticut Avenue entrance. Zoo staff will scan tickets and parking passes at the Connecticut Avenue entrance and tickets at the lower entrance near the Kids’ Farm. Metro Bus (D70) and Metro Rail (Woodley Park-Zoo and Cleveland Park) have stops within walking distance of the zoo’s main pedestrian entrance on Connecticut Avenue.
Feature image courtesy Smithsonian’s National Zoo
