Washington, D.C. (Jan. 11, 2025) – Giant pandas Bao Li [BOW-lee] and Qing Bao [ching-BOW] are ready to meet their fans. The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) will host the pandas’ highly anticipated public debut on January 24, followed by a celebratory “District of Panda Party” from January 25 through February 9.
The event, supported by The Boeing Company, FedEx, Pepco, and Events DC, will feature family-friendly entertainment, cultural activities, and a Lunar New Year celebration, bringing the community together to honor the newest additions to the Zoo’s giant panda breeding and conservation program.
“For over 50 years, giant pandas have been an integral part of the fabric and culture of Washington, D.C.,” said Brandie Smith, the John and Adrienne Mars Director of NZCBI. “Bao Li and Qing Bao have already won the hearts of our staff and volunteers, and we are excited to welcome panda fans back to the Zoo—the only place in the nation where you can see giant pandas for free.”
Highlights of the District of Panda Party
The celebration includes free activities such as film screenings of Kung Fu Panda in the Visitor Center Theater and cultural events courtesy of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Visitors are encouraged to check the Zoo’s website for the latest party details.
Guests can reserve free entry passes and paid parking passes in advance through the Zoo’s website. A limited number of same-day passes may be available at the entrance for those without prior reservations.
Reviving the Giant Panda Cam
The Zoo’s Giant Panda Cam, sponsored by The Boeing Company, will be reactivated on January 24 to coincide with the pandas’ debut. The live stream, managed by a dedicated team of trained volunteers, will run daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, with replays available for global viewers after hours.
Ahead of the debut, the Zoo released a digital series, Prepping for Pandas, highlighting milestones in Bao Li and Qing Bao’s journey to Washington, D.C.
Limited-Edition Merchandise
Fans can commemorate Bao Li and Qing Bao’s debut by purchasing limited-edition District of Panda Party merchandise online beginning January 24. Proceeds directly support the Smithsonian’s animal care and conservation initiatives.
Giant Panda Habitat Preview
The David M. Rubenstein Family Giant Panda Habitat, Bird House, and Asia Trail remain closed to the public ahead of the pandas’ debut. Small groups, including Zoo staff, volunteers, and members, have been previewing the pandas to help them acclimate to the sights and sounds of visitors. Members participating in the preview from January 10 to 19 were required to reserve free timed-entry passes.
How to Participate
Visitors of all ages are encouraged to join the celebration and experience the charm of Bao Li and Qing Bao. To ensure entry, reserve passes in advance through the Zoo’s website.
For more details on the District of Panda Party, visit the Smithsonian’s National Zoo website.