Thousands of toy elephants to parachute onto Dumbo’s iconic Washington Street
Brooklyn’s flying elephant fundraising spectacle, the annual Dumbo Drop, returns Friday, May 29, 2026. The event features two drops at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., where thousands of toy elephants will parachute from rooftops surrounding Washington Street.
Tickets for the ninth annual event start at $18.75. Each ticket includes a souvenir toy elephant, a guaranteed viewing spot on car-free Washington Street between Front and Water Streets, and entry into a prize sweepstakes. Attendees ages 2 and older are required to have a ticket to witness the drops, which are ticketed as separate sessions.
Proceeds from the Dumbo Drop support local Title 1 public schools, PS307 Elementary and The Dock Street Middle School.
“Dumbo Drop is one of the most unique and memorable sights in New York City,” said Alexandria Sica, president of the Dumbo Improvement District. “You won’t want to miss this and we are so proud to put on this event and raise funds for our neighborhood schools!”
Each year, the elephants feature a parachute designed by a neighborhood artist. This year’s design is by Christian Vera.
In addition to the main event, car-free Washington Street will host a lineup of entertainment, including a live set by The Jelly, a flash mob dance party on the LifeTime Stage, and a photobooth with commemorative prints. Families can also participate in Dumbo-themed crafts with Creatively Wild and LEGO activities with Brooklyn Bridge Parents.
Sweepstakes prizes include a six-month membership to Life Time gym, a $500 gift card to M Collection Home + Design, and a two-night stay at the 1Hotel in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Winners do not need to be present to win.
Doors open at 3:30 p.m. for the early drop and 6 p.m. for the evening drop. Viewing tickets can be purchased online through the Dumbo Improvement District.
Click here to purchase tickets.
