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OCTOBER 5 and 6, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Tickets will be available for purchase in September.

About the Autumn Conservation Festival

Join us for an unforgettable day of fun, tours, and activities at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

This is the one time every year that SCBI Front Royal is open to the public.

Chat with our world-famous scientists one on one and learn about their fascinating research that spans the globe. Scientists will also be on hand to help you explore the tools and technology they use to understand animals and their environments.

Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the partnership between the Zoo’s Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) and George Mason University (GMU) which established the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation. Its mission is sustaining global biodiversity by advancing the theory and practice of conservation biology with transformative, transdisciplinary education.

Admission Includes

  • More species on view this year than ever before! Behind-the-scenes looks at some of SCBI Front Royal's endangered animals, including clouded leopard, black-footed ferret, kiwi, red panda, cranes, bison, Przewalski's horse, domestic cow, Bali mynah, Mariana crow, Guam rail, Micronesian kingfisher, and maned wolf
  • Live music
  • Special activities for children
  • Food and beverages available for purchase:
    • Burgers, hotdogs, and vegetarian options from the grill
    • Whole fruit
    • Chips and cookies
    • Fresh popcorn with assorted flavored toppings
    • Water and soda
  • Zoo-themed merchandise will be available for purchase

Autumn Conservation Festival will be held rain or shine

SCBI Front Royal

Situated in the heart of SCBI’s 3,200-acre facility in Front Royal, Virginia, the new LEED Gold certified facilities feature state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms, a distance learning center, green roofs, rainwater gardens, a dining hall and dormitories.

Please note: SCBI Front Royal is set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Autumn Conservation Festival activities are scattered throughout the campus. Dress appropriately for outdoor activities and wear comfortable walking shoes. This event will be held rain or shine.

View of CRC

We look forward to seeing you at the Autumn Conservation Festival. Your contribution directly supports conservation work at SCBI Front Royal.

Directions to the Autumn Conservation Festival

Sponsor This Event

Companies interested in sponsoring the event will receive valuable benefits ranging from logo ID on event and advertising materials to onsite signage, sampling opportunities, and complimentary tickets. Also, many sponsorships qualify for a tax deduction. For more information, call 202.633.3026 or email Pam Bucklinger.

For questions about the event, email us.

Join FONZ today!