Monday, August 16, 2021 to Sunday, August 22, 2021
The Zoo's giant panda cub turns 1 year old on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021!
The Zoo is free, but entry passes are required for all guests, including infants. All visitors ages 2 and older are required to wear a mask in all indoor spaces at the Zoo, regardless of their vaccination status. Fully vaccinated visitors do not need to wear a mask in outdoor areas.
As a public health precaution due to COVID-19, some events have been modified or canceled. See below for more information about specific events.
Upcoming Events
Past Events
May 5, 7 and 8
Welcome the birds back and learn how you can lend them a helping hand with these virtual events.
Sunday, May 2, 2021
Celebrate the beauty and importance of family diversity with virtual family-focused activities.
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Get an update on giant panda cub Xiao Qi Ji and hear about his birth in this streaming program hosted by Smithsonian Associates, featuring staff scientist Pierre Comizzoli and assistant curator for... more
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Spend some quality time with Xiao Qi Ji in the first FREE panda cub livestream event broadcasting on Wednesday, Jan. 27, from 1-1:15 p.m. ET.
Fridays & Saturdays | Nov. 27 through Dec. 19
The 24-foot ZooLights Express truck, festively decorated with light displays and featuring “Panda Claws,” will hit the road and visit one Washington, D.C., ward each Friday and Saturday night from 6-... more
Friday, October 2, 2020
SBCI's annual festival is going virtual this year. Watch videos about conservation, and join live Q&As with researchers and scientists Friday, Oct. 2.
Saturday, September 19, 2020
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at ZooFiesta. This free, family event includes animal feedings, arts and crafts, and live music.
Wednesday, April 1, 2020 to Friday, April 30, 2021
The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is celebrating Earth Day all month long!
Saturday, August 25, 2018
Celebrate Enrichment Day at the Smithsonian's National Zoo on Saturday, Aug. 25! Zoo visitors will have the opportunity to participate in training and enrichment activities, attend demonstrations and... more