Brooklyn’s Dumbo Drop Returns

Brooklyn’s Iconic Dumbo Drop Returns with Parachuting Elephants and Family Fun! — Photo Credit: Hassan Mokaddam

Brooklyn’s Dumbo Drop Returns with Parachuting Elephants

Even those who’ve never set foot in Brooklyn (the horror!) have likely seen Washington Street in Dumbo—that picture-perfect stretch where the Manhattan Bridge is perfectly framed between old red-brick buildings. It’s one of the most photographed spots in New York, especially this time of year when wedding season approaches. This month, it transforms into the backdrop for one of the city’s quirkiest and most beloved family events: the Dumbo Drop.

Each year, the Dumbo Drop welcomes kid-friendly activities, music, food, and fun. At the center of it all is the signature drop, which sends hundreds of toy elephants parachuting from rooftops, a sight that continues to delight visitors every year. The toy elephants parachuting from the rooftops feature custom-designed parachutes created by a local artist. This year’s artist, Zeph Farmby, brings a new design to the drop.

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This year’s event includes both ticketed and free programming, and a variety of age groups. Proceeds benefit local public schools, including Dumbo’s Title 1 public schools, PS307 Elementary and The Dock Street Middle School. By attending the event or purchasing a ticket, families help fund educational programs, supplies, and resources for neighborhood students.

This Year’s Line-up

This year’s event will include a themed photo area for families who want to snap a quick picture, along with live music from The Jelly. There will also be a street dance session led by Life Time trainer Joseph David. For food and drinks, the Taste of Dumbo pop-up will offer a range of options from neighborhood restaurants, which is convenient for families planning to stay through dinner.

Before and after the two Dumbo drops, families can enjoy the Dumbo Archway Party, a fun and free celebration taking place from 4 pm to 7 pm. No tickets are required. This all-ages event offers a festive mix of activities, food, and entertainment in one of Brooklyn’s most iconic outdoor spaces.

The Dumbo Archway Party includes:

Kids Zone: Young children can enjoy a carefully designed space tailored specifically for ages 1–10. Featuring more than 20 interactive activities curated by Brooklyn Bridge Parents, the area offers a diverse range of engaging options, including sensory play, crafts, games, and movement-based experiences for various age groups.
Bouncy Slide: Kids can enjoy a colorful inflatable slide, generously sponsored by Elliston Pediatrics. Climbing up and sliding down provides plenty of active fun and helps little ones burn off some energy while taking part in the day’s festivities.
Bedazzling Extravaganza: For budding artists, Creatively Wild is hosting a hands-on creative station where kids can dive into glitter, gems, and all things glam in a fun, imaginative art experience.
Taste of Dumbo: Explore Dumbo’s diverse culinary offerings through a carefully curated selection of neighborhood restaurants presenting a variety of flavorful dishes available for purchase. The options range from savory bites to sweet treats, so that covers a variety of options for kids with specific food preferences.
Beer Garden: While the kids play, parents can kick back and relax with a drink in the open-air Beer Garden, featuring a selection of beverages from the Dumbo Archway Bar.

Tickets start at $15 and include a keepsake toy elephant and automatic entry into a prize sweepstakes. Prizes are locally sourced and family-friendly, ranging from a six-month membership to Life Time Gym to a two-night stay at 1Hotel Brooklyn Bridge and a $500 gift card to Almondine Bakery.

The Dumbo drop take place on Washington Street on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 3:30 – 7:30 pm. Elephant Drops at 5 pm and 7 pm. Tickets start at $15 and include a toy elephant and a prize entry. For more details and tickets, visit Dumbo Drop.