Featuring dancing, drinks, and adorable zoo animals, the National Zoo's adult Halloween party is destined to be a scream.
Calling all werewolves, witches, ghosts, and ghouls—you've been summoned for a scary good time at Night of the Living Zoo at the Smithsonian National Zoo!
Held a week before All Hallows' Eve, visitors can gather for an after-hours adult Halloween party. Halloween may be a children's holiday, but that doesn't mean grown-ups can't get in on the fun!
WHEN: Friday, October 25 | 7-10:30 p.m.
WHERE: Smithsonian National Zoo | 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW | Washington, D.C. | View map here
ADMISSION: General $30-$45 | VIP $65-$95
This Halloween bash features some spectacularly spooky entertainment. Fill up on craft beverages and delicious grub from D.C.-area food trucks, and show off your moves with a DJ dance party (you can never go wrong with the Monster Mash!).
A costume contest will be hosted by The American Association for the Advancement of Science, so put on your best costume and get in the spirit! Performance artists will add a creepy twist to the evening's festivities, and since this is the zoo, after all, you'll get a chance to visit the animals.
General admission is $30-$35 for Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ) members, while non-members are $40-$45. These tickets will get you two drink tickets and access to the above entertainment. Even if you don't get the member discount, you'll still be getting a frightfully good deal.
Zoo lovers wanting a step up from the usual experience should go VIP. VIP includes all that General Admission offers, plus some extra perks. You'll receive a third drink ticket and access to exclusive event spaces featuring dance parties, food-tastings, animal exhibitions, and more. FONZ members pay $65-$70 and non-members pay $90-$95.
Here are a few things to know beforehand:
- This event is 21+ only.
- Tickets went on sale September 13 for FONZ members, but if you aren't a member, never fear! You'll be able to get yours starting September 19. We recommend buying them in advance to avoid $5 mark-up at the door.
- The zoo is accessible by Big Bus Tour shuttles and the Metro Red Line.
- Parking is $15 for FONZ members and $25 for non-members. Visitors can park in the Connecticut Avenue entrance at lots B and D.
- Most food vendors accept credit cards, but we recommend bringing cash just in case!
Check out the zoo's website for more information.
**All photos courtesy of Smithsonian National Zoo
Will you be going to Night of the Living Zoo? Tell us about your costume in the comments!