Boo at the Zoo Returns to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for Four Weeks of Halloween Fun

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo today announced the return of Boo at the Zoo, the popular family-friendly after-hours Halloween celebration. Guests can bring their families in costume and enjoy festive fun throughout the Zoo Thursday through Sunday evenings from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., October 1 through October 25.

After dark, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will be transformed with immersive Halloween displays and photo opportunities throughout the Zoo. Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating at a dozen candy stations courtesy of Wayside Furniture, meet-and-greets with costumed characters, the Monster Mash Dance Party presented by CrossCountry Mortgage and free rides on the Boomerang train courtesy of MetroHealth.

The first 1,000 guests each night will receive a complimentary trick-or-treat bag courtesy of Meijer. Additional entertainment includes the Kooky Cellists, Rockin’ Robots, performances by magician Rick Smith Jr., a hay maze and more.

“The return of Boo at the Zoo is something we know families have been eagerly awaiting, and we’re excited to bring this Halloween tradition back in a big way,” said Kelly Manderfield, Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer. “From trick-or-treating and dancing to special entertainment and plenty of opportunities to show off your Halloween costume, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’re grateful to our partners for helping us create an unforgettable Halloween experience for our guests.”

Boo at the Zoo runs Thursday through Sunday, October 1–25, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Costumes are encouraged, and guests can enjoy all Boo at the Zoo activities with admission.

Tickets are on sale now at FutureForWildlife.org/Boo. Guests can save by purchasing tickets in advance. The advance discounted cost for Zoo members is $20 per person or a 4-pack for $69. Advance non-member tickets are $22 per person or a 4-pack for $77. Limited same-day tickets can be purchased online or at the Box Office for an increased cost. The Box Office will close at 8:00 p.m. Children under age 2 enter free.

New this year

Step into a private Halloween hideaway at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo with the Boo at the VIP Experience—a festive, all-ages Safari tent designed to elevate your night at Boo at the Zoo. Inside our Zoo-themed VIP tent, families can relax, refuel, and revel in a playful Halloween atmosphere.

Enjoy kid-approved bites, adult-friendly favorites, and candy, perfect to start your evening as you stroll the Zoo. Create memories with some of our favorite costume characters who will roam the tent for photos, greetings, and memorable moments. Play hands-on games designed for families, from corn hole to giant Jenga.

Halloween 5K

The Halloween fun continues with the Halloween 5K, part of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo 5K Race Series presented by CrossCountry Mortgage. On Saturday, October 24 at 8:30 a.m., runners and walkers are invited to come in costume and experience a one-of-a-kind race through the Zoo.

Registration is online only, with early registration available for $30 from August 24 through October 22. Registration increases to $35 beginning October 23 through race day. All participants will receive a custom race T-shirt and commemorative medal. Registration and additional information are available at futureforwildlife.org.

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