SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Rosamond Gifford Zoo put their Asian Elephants in the spotlight Saturday. The four elephants were at the focal point of a showcase of Asian culture.

Puppets shows, Asian dancing and fashion were on display along with elephant demonstrations. Visitors were also able to pet the elephants, thanks to a rule change the DEC made on Thursday.

Organizers say they are thrilled that the elephants can now be so accessible to the public.

"We think that Syracuse is really an elephant community. The people in this town are so supportive of the elephants program here and they really love it. It is one of the most popular exhibits at the zoo. And being able to get up close and personal with an elephant isn't just something you can do at any zoo. So we are very fortunate at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo petting an elephant is part of what we can do whenever we come up here,” said Lorrell Walter, PR Director Rosamond Gifford Zoo.

Organizers say the goal of the event was to highlight the strength and incredible intelligence of the animal.