Bei Bei the panda plays in DC snow at National Zoo

WASHINGTON - While many Washingtonians dreaded the arrival of snow in the District on Thursday, one of the area’s most beloved animals welcomed its arrival with open arms.

Bei Bei the panda was spotted playing and tumbling at the National Zoo as he celebrated the first snowfall of the season.

The National Zoo posted video of the 3-year-old giant panda enjoying what Mother Nature had to offer after a low-pressure system created bursts of snow and sleet throughout the morning.

Several schools in the area closed or delayed the start of classes on Thursday as a precaution.

In the video player above, watch video of Bei Bei enjoying his snow day.