The District of Panda Party takes place January 24 through February 9 and features fun for the whole family.
Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for Washington, DC, announced their sponsorship of the “Kung Fu Panda” film festival as part of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute’s District of Panda Party for the debut of Bao Li and Qin Bao, two new giant pandas, to Washington, DC.
The return of pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo aligns with Events DC’s mission to create unique experiences that result in jobs, economic impact and lasting memories for residents, tourists and guests. The Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s pandas have always been a huge draw for visitors, with more than two million people coming to the Zoo annually to see them. Millions of guests have participated in panda-focused programming and the live-streamed Panda Cam has earned more than 100 million views since its launch in 2011.
Events DC and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo partnered on a video shorts content series called, “Pandas Among Us.” The series follows the Panda Pal visiting Washington, DC landmarks. These videos will be shared on Events DC and the Zoo’s social media channels in preparation for the pandas’ official first public appearance.
The District of Panda Party is a public celebration with a series of special events and programs, including a Lunar New Year event. There also will be cultural activities provided courtesy of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Party details will be available on the Zoo’s website. The District of Panda Party is made possible with the support of The Boeing Company, FedEx, Pepco and Events DC.
Free entry passes and paid parking passes should be reserved in advance through the Zoo’s website. Guests of all ages must have their own free entry pass. A limited number of same-day passes may be offered at Zoo entrances for visitors without access to the Zoo’s website.
Beginning Jan. 24, the Smithsonian invites panda fans to shop online for a selection of limited-edition “District of Panda Party” merchandise commemorating Bao Li and Qing Bao’s debut. Proceeds directly support the Smithsonian and NZCBI’s animal care and conservation programs.
To follow the latest news about NZCBI’s panda program, visit the Zoo’s website, subscribe to its e-newsletter, and follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X using the hashtag #DCPandas.
