Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Alexandria’s main zoo witnessed a massive turnout on Monday as more than 20,000 visitors flocked to the park to celebrate the spring festival of Sham El-Nessim, transforming it into one of the city’s most vibrant holiday destinations.
Families from across Alexandria and neighboring governorates gathered early in the day at the Alexandria Zoo, seeking to enjoy the mild weather, green spaces, and festive atmosphere. The large crowds highlighted the enduring appeal of public parks as a primary escape during national holidays.
Strong Turnout Reflects Holiday Traditions
Visitors began arriving in large numbers from the early morning hours, filling the zoo’s walkways and open areas. Families spread out across the gardens, enjoying a day outdoors surrounded by nature and wildlife, in line with long-standing Egyptian spring traditions.
A key feature of the celebrations remained the customary meals associated with Sham El-Nessim. Many families brought along traditional foods such as feseekh and renga, dining together on the grass in a lively and distinctly local atmosphere.
Weather Boosts Visitor Numbers
Improved weather conditions and rising temperatures played a significant role in boosting attendance, encouraging residents to head outdoors and make the most of the public holiday.
Early Preparations and Upgrades
Dr. Shaimaa Abdullah, Director of Alexandria Zoo, confirmed that visitor numbers exceeded 20,000 throughout the day. She noted that preparations began well in advance of the holiday, including upgrades to service areas, maintenance of restrooms, and the addition of more seating spaces for visitors.
The zoo also introduced new kiosks selling snacks and refreshments, while enclosures were repainted and animal habitats improved to ensure both visitor comfort and animal welfare.
Tight Security and Emergency Readiness
Authorities implemented a comprehensive security plan in coordination with Alexandria’s security directorate. Security personnel were deployed both inside and outside the zoo to prevent incidents and manage the large crowds.
Emergency services were also on standby, with a fully equipped ambulance stationed on-site and teams from the Egyptian Red Crescent providing free first aid to visitors when needed.
A Blend of Entertainment and Education
Zoo management emphasized that the goal is to offer a well-rounded experience that combines entertainment with education. Visitors were able to observe and, in some cases, feed animals in a safe environment, creating an engaging and family-friendly experience.
The strong turnout underscores the zoo’s role not only as a recreational hub but also as an educational destination, particularly during major national celebrations like Sham El-Nessim.
