Science Solstice Saturday

Each year, the Smithsonian marks the first Saturday of summer — Solstice Saturday — by hosting programs and performances throughout the day and night.

Get ready for Solstice Saturday, a free, fun-filled immersive scientific experience at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo! On Saturday, June 21, 2025, visitors can watch special demonstrations and meet some of the amazing scientists, researchers, and animal experts who are shaping the future of wildlife conservation.

How to Participate

Once you arrive, visit the Information tables located at Connecticut Ave and Lion-Tiger Hill entrances to receive a stamp sheet and map of activities. Throughout the day, you can discover science activity stations on your journey around the Zoo. Each station gives you the opportunity to earn a stamp by completing activities – collect four stamps and you can redeem a special prize at either Information table!

Schedule of Events

As you explore the Zoo, you can find special demonstrations and interactive talks showcasing the Smithsonian’s scientific research efforts. 

Visitor Center 

Smithsonian scientists are working around the globe to help restore habitats and save animals from extinction. Enjoy short films highlighting their efforts in wildlife conservation.

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Short Films at Visitor Center Auditorium

Bird House 

Curious visitors can meet some of our dazzling species of North American birds – along with the dedicated experts who care for them – in these special demonstrations! 

10:30 a.m. | Delaware Bay Shorebird Keeper Chat

11 a.m. | Turkey Keeper Chat

12:30 p.m. | Flamingo Keeper Chat

1 p.m. | Coffee Farm Keeper Chat

Bird Observatory (inside the Bird House)

Join a conservation with bird experts and get an up-close view of how they track North America’s feathered friends on their epic seasonal journeys. Plus, you can get tips on how to make your home and lifestyle better for birds and the planet. 

10 a.m. | Bird Banding Demonstration

11 a.m. | Bird Friendly Coffee Tasting Demonstration

1 p.m. | Native Plants to Support Birds

Small Mammal House

By the second half of the 20th century, the black-footed ferret and the golden lion tamarin were facing extinction – but scientists gave them a fighting chance at survival. Join a conversation with a wildlife expert and learn how the Smithsonian has aided in the restoration of these iconic species in their native habitats.

10:30 a.m. | Black-Footed Ferret Science Talk

2 p.m. | Golden Lion Tamarin Science Talk

Kids Farm

Kids’ Farm is a place where the littlest Zoo visitors can get to know some familiar barnyard animals. Watch a special demonstration at noon!

12 p.m. | Animal Walk at Kids’ Farm