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Special Event
Event
Pokey's Party: Celebrating 30 Years of Turtle Wisdom!
This event has already occurred. This page is provided for reference only.
Fee:
Free.Location: LAT/LONG: 38.960047, -77.051760
The Rock Creek Park Nature Center is located at 5200 Glover Road NW, Washington, DC, 20015
Dates & Times
Date:
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Time:
10:00 AM
Duration:
4 hours
Description
Join us for a shell-ebration like no other as we honor Pokey, Rock Creek Park’s long-time—and slowest-moving—team member! For 30 years, this wise old Box Turtle has inspired generations of visitors to care for nature, learn about the wild world, and slow down to appreciate the small things.
This free, family-friendly event includes:
- A timeline of Pokey’s life and park history
- Nature exhibits exploring why Pokey lives at the center, the impact of removing plants and animals from the park, and stories of endangered turtles around the globe
- A gallery of past Pokey artwork by visitors just like you
- Hands-on activities including:
- Make-your-own Pokey party hat
- Create a commemorative t-shirt (please bring your own shirt!)
- Write Pokey a birthday card
- Earn a Jr. Ranger badge
There will also be a special presentation to unveil a commemorative NPS Arrowhead in Pokey’s honor—soon to be permanently displayed at the Nature Center!
Come celebrate the turtle who’s been teaching us to care, wonder, and protect for three decades. Let’s give Pokey the party he deserves!
Reservation or Registration: No
Image Gallery
NPS / Draper