Chongqing Zoo was abuzz with excitement on June 10 as giant panda twins Xing Xing and Chen Chen celebrated their third birthday, which this year coincided with the traditional Dragon Boat Festival. The male twins, born at the zoo in 2021, were the center of attention as visitors joined in the festive celebrations.
To mark this special occasion, the zoo organized a birthday party complete with decorations and a unique treat for the panda pair. Caretakers prepared a special “zongzi” dish—a traditional sticky rice dumpling associated with the Dragon Boat Festival—not only for Xing Xing and Chen Chen but for all the pandas at the zoo. The pandas eagerly enjoyed their festive feast, much to the delight of onlookers.
Families and tourists gathered to witness the joyful event, capturing photos and learning about the significance of the festival and panda conservation efforts. The synchronization of the pandas’ birthday with the Dragon Boat Festival added a cultural touch to the celebrations, highlighting the rich traditions of the region.
“It’s wonderful to see the pandas enjoying the festivities,” said a visitor from overseas. “This experience combines cultural heritage with wildlife appreciation, making it truly memorable.”
The Chongqing Zoo continues to play a vital role in the conservation and breeding of giant pandas, contributing to global efforts to protect this endangered species. Events like these raise awareness and foster a connection between the public and these beloved animals.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
