Local Avi Pollack, 5, tried to find the prize inside of a box filled with fake money that was blowing all around him during the 145th…

Key points

• Lucy the Elephant, a historic Margate landmark built in 1881, marked its 145th birthday on August 1, 2026
• The celebration featured interactive activities for children, including a prize-search game with fake money
• Local families participated in the festivities, reinforcing the elephant's role as a beloved community landmark
• The event demonstrates continued public engagement with one of New Jersey's most distinctive tourist attractions

FAQ

What is Lucy the Elephant?

Lucy the Elephant is an iconic wood and sheet-metal structure built in 1881 in Margate, New Jersey. Standing six stories tall, it is one of the oldest roadside attractions in the United States and has served as a landmark and tourist destination for generations.

Where is the celebration held?

The 145th birthday celebration for Lucy the Elephant took place in Margate, a shore community in Atlantic County, New Jersey, where the structure has stood for well over a century.

What activities were available at the event?

The celebration included family-friendly activities designed for young children, such as interactive games where kids could search for prizes. The event drew local families and helped celebrate the landmark's long history.

Why is Lucy the Elephant important to South Jersey?

Lucy the Elephant is a historic and culturally significant landmark that has served as a tourist attraction and symbol of South Jersey's heritage since 1881. It remains one of the most recognizable roadside attractions in the United States.