Governor Newsom Declares Thursday “Panda Day” in Honor of New Giant Pandas at California Zoo

The panda pair, Xin Bao and Yun Chuan, arrived from China on June 27 and have been acclimating to their new home at the zoo’s “Panda Ridge.”Photo byMélody PonUnsplash

California Governor Gavin Newsom has officially declared Thursday as “Panda Day” to celebrate the long-awaited debut of the San Diego Zoo’s new giant pandas, the first to arrive in the U.S. in over 21 years. The panda pair, Xin Bao and Yun Chuan, arrived from China on June 27 and have been acclimating to their new home at the zoo’s “Panda Ridge.”

Newsom’s ceremonial proclamation, issued just a day before the pandas’ first public appearance, highlights the excitement surrounding their arrival. The governor expressed pride that Southern California’s premier zoo is hosting these beloved bears, known for their role as “envoys of friendship” from China.

The debut of Xin Bao and Yun Chuan marks a significant moment for the San Diego Zoo, drawing both local and national attention as the community eagerly anticipates the pandas' first day in the spotlight.