The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is getting in on the Halloween fun. Once again, the zoo will be hosting its annual family-friendly Boo at the Zoo and adults-only Night of the Living Zoo this October.
Boo at the Zoo
Boo at the Zoo will be held on three nights, from October 17 to 19, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Night of the Living Zoo will be held on October 24 and 25 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
At the family-friendly Boo at the Zoo, kids can trick-or-treat while also exploring the decorated animal habitats. The after-hours event gives guests access to the Small Mammal House, Elephant Community Center, and Reptile Discovery Center.
Inside the habitats, you’ll spot Halloween-themed enrichment items for the animals, like carved jack-o-lanterns and painted banners. Magicians and entertainers can be found throughout the trick-or-treat path.
New this year are the master carvers. Head to the Conservation Pavilion patio to see these carvers transform giant pumpkins into works of art.
Night of the Living Zoo
Night of the Living Zoo is an adult (age 21-plus) after-hours party. Guests will have access to spooky spirits from the open cocktail bar; sit down for “Zoostrology,” temporary tattoos, and silhouette artists; and jam out to performances by White Ford Broncos (October 24) and Billy “T” Wilde (October 25).
Guests that want to check out the animals will have access to the Reptile Discovery Center and Great Cats exhibit from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. For an additional purchase, partygoers can grab a bite to eat or mark the evening with a permanent flash tattoo.
Tickets for Boo at the Zoo are $35 for non-members and $29.75 for members, who also receive early admission to the event. Children ages 2 and under can enter for free. Night of the Living Zoo tickets are $80 for non-members and $68 for members. Parking passes are also available for $30 for both events. 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Feature image courtesy Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
