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⚠️ Vital Improvements to Our Flamingo Exhibit

We’re currently carrying out vital improvements to our flamingo exhibit to create an even better environment for our flock.

While these enhancements are underway, our flamingos will be temporarily off show. The improvements will help ensure they can be enjoyed by visitors on most days throughout the year for many years to come.

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you back to see the finished exhibit.

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Dragonfly festival At Washington Wetland Centre

18 July to 31 August 2026

A summer of dragonfly-themed events and activities

Explore the magical world of dragonflies and dive into a summer full of wondrous new wetland experiences

Book online save 10%

Festival Line-up

Events and activities you can enjoy throughout summer

    Ready to visit?

    With so many wildlife encounters and inspiring activities, no two visits are the same. A visit also supports our vital work to restore wetlands and their wildlife.

    Book online save 10%

    Headliners

    Leave the comfort zone and experience something a bit different

    Moth Mornings

    Moth Mornings

    A magical, close‑up encounter with the mysterious moths of the North East

    18 - 30 July
    Pond Dipping

    Pond Dipping

    A splash of discovery as families uncover the tiny creatures living beneath the water’s surface

    20 - 29 July
    Dragonfly Safari

    Dragonfly Safari

    Step into a swirl of colour and family fun as the Dragonfly Safari brings Washington Wetland Centre to life. Grab your spotter guide and join our guided wild walks to see these shimmering aerial acrobats zip, hover and hunt around the ponds and summer mea

    21 - 28 July
    Mini Beast Hunting

    Mini Beast Hunting

    Explore Hollowood and uncover tiny creatures hiding in soil, leaves and wood. Using brushes, magnifiers and trays, you can gently search for woodlice, millipedes, stink bugs and more while enjoying outdoor learning and wildlife activities at Washington We

    23 - 31 July
    Animal Mischief Managers - Craft Session

    Animal Mischief Managers - Craft Session

    Get creative with this hands‑on activity to create enrichment crafts that support the playful animals at Washington Wetland Centre. Decorate Dragonfly style pebbles for the otters, make scented festival bunting and craft nature‑themed garlands to blen

    24 July - 27 August
    Build a Bug House

    Build a Bug House

    A fun, creative family activity where you’ll join volunteer Kate in the Insect Garden to make your own bug house from recycled milk cartons. It’s a great way to learn about the insects that support our wetlands while building a wildlife‑friendly hab

    25 July
    Moth Mornings

    Moth Mornings

    A magical, close‑up encounter with the mysterious moths of the North East

    1 - 15 August
    Pond dipping

    Pond dipping

    A splash of discovery as families uncover the tiny creatures living beneath the water’s surface

    3 - 26 August

    Book online and save 10%

    For the best value tickets, get ahead and book online in advance.

    Book now

    Keep in touch

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    Make special memories this summer

    Holidaying at home? Our Dragonfly Festival is taking place in our nine WWT wetland centres across the UK. Find a site near you and discover their unique line-up of dragonfly themed activities and events to keep all the family busy this summer.

    Want to know more about these fascinating creatures and their wetland habitats? Explore the magical world of dragonflies and become a dragonfly expert.

    Head to the festival hub page

    Dragonfly Festival FAQs

    We are WWT, the charity for wetlands and wildlife.

    In a world full of challenges, we’re on a mission to restore wetlands and unlock their power. Because when wetlands thrive, so do we.