Trick-or-Treating Meets Wildlife at the 'Boo at the Zoo' Event, Oct. 18–20

The Smithsonian National Zoo is offering kids a chance to go trick-or-treating at their annual "Boo at the Zoo" event. There will be over 40 trick-or-treat stations and plenty of activities for the whole family.

Spooky season has finally arrived, and the Smithsonian National Zoo is offering kids a chance to take Halloween trick-or-treating to the next level.

Their annual "Boo at the Zoo" event allows kids to go trick-or-treating with the wild animals (40 different stations), sing and dance in the middle of the park, and take photos with the spooky atmosphere and costumed characters. Wear your best costume and be prepared to carry around that heavy bag of all the candy your kiddos collect!

To make the Halloween festivities even better, the Smithsonian National Zoo will be decorated with all things spooky, as well as orange lights to guide you along the paths.

Woman in Costume

Courtesy of Smithsonian National Zoo

WHEN: Friday, October 18–Sunday, October 20 | 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Smithsonian National Zoo | 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20008
ADMISSION: $20 for FONZ members and $30 for non-members; Saturday is sold out
PARKING: Parking is only available in the Connecticut parking lot, and tickets are required

Boo at the Zoo Banner

Courtesy of Smithsonian National Zoo

What to Expect

During your time at the zoo, you will participate in a number of activities including:

Candy collecting at over 40 trick-or-treating stations
Busting it out at a dance party with kids' karaoke
A meet-and-greet with Frakenpanda and Count Pandula (photos ops encouraged)
After-hours access to animal houses and exhibits (David M. Rubenstein Family Giant Panda Habitat will be closed)
Zoo education stations
A ride on the Speedwell Conservation Carousel for an additional charge

Your ticket will include a commemorative Boo at the Zoo trick-or-treating bag and a quiet place for those with sensory processing disabilities.

Kid and Count Pandula

Courtesy of Pack More Into Life

Good to Know

Food will not be provided to guests, so you should prepare to eat ahead of time. Items that are prohibited include full-face mask costumes, balloons, weapons of any kind, and smoking on the premise. All sales are final, and no refunds will be issued—this is a rain or shine event.

Have you gone to Boo at the Zoo before? How much candy do you expect to bring home? Will you be taking photos with Count Pandula and Frankenpanda? Tell us in the comments!