The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is going big for World Elephant Day this year.
From August 7 through August 9, the Zoo will host EleFest, a three-day celebration dedicated to elephants, conservation, and culture.
The event also serves as a special opportunity for visitors to celebrate Linh Mai, the Zoo’s newest Asian elephant calf, while enjoying a mix of free programming and exclusive ticketed experiences.
Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a unique yoga session, or an adults-only happy hour with views of the elephant herd, EleFest promises one of the most memorable weekends of the summer in Washington, D.C.
When is the National Zoo’s EleFest going to be?
EleFest will take place Friday, August 7th, through Sunday, August 9th, just ahead of World Elephant Day on August 12th.
The three-day festival will be held throughout the Zoo’s elephant areas, including the Elephant Community Center, Pachyderm Plaza, and Elephant Outpost.
Visitors can stop by throughout the weekend to participate in activities focused on elephant conservation, wildlife education, and cultural traditions connected to Asian elephants.
The celebration is designed to be accessible for both families and dedicated animal lovers, with programming spread across all three days.
What to expect at EleFest
EleFest combines conservation education with entertainment, creating a festival atmosphere centered around one of the Zoo’s most beloved species.
Some of the biggest highlights include:
- EleFest Happy Hour (Aug. 7) — A 21+ after-hours event featuring an elephant-themed cocktail, wildlife trivia, live DJ entertainment, and opportunities to celebrate baby elephant, Linh Mai.
- Yoga with Elephants (Aug. 8-9) — Early morning yoga sessions held alongside the Zoo’s elephant herd inside the Elephant Community Center.
- Traditional Thai dance performances from the Somapa Thai Dance Group on Saturday.
- Elephant-themed story times and literacy activities hosted by the DC Public Library.
- Community chalk mural creation with Chalk Riot on Sunday.
- South Indian dance performances and an interactive workshop by the Rhythmaya Dance Group.
- Special animal demonstrations and hands-on activity stations are located throughout the Zoo.
The festival’s combination of wildlife experiences, cultural programming, and family activities makes it one of the National Zoo’s most unique events of the year.
Is EleFest free to attend?
Yes — many of EleFest’s activities are free, though visitors will still need a free Zoo entry pass for general admission events.
However, several premium experiences require separate tickets:
- EleFest Happy Hour: $25 in advance or $30 on the day of the event. Admission includes one complimentary drink ticket.
- Yoga with Elephants: $75 per person.
- Parking: $30 when purchased in advance or $40 on the day of your visit.
The Happy Hour event is restricted to guests 21 and older, while Yoga with Elephants is recommended for visitors ages 12 and up.
Because both ticketed experiences have limited capacity, visitors interested in attending may want to reserve their spos well before the August festival weekend.
With a baby elephant drawing crowds, exclusive after-hours experiences, and a full schedule of free family activities, EleFest is shaping up to be one of the National Zoo’s biggest special events of the summer.
