BOO at the NC Zoo
Celebrate Halloween with a family-friendly event at the North Carolina Zoo. Kids aged 4-12 can enjoy trick-or-treating, costume contests, and festive games. A new quiet sensory area offers a calm space, and a pumpkin patch provides a take-home souvenir. It's a howling good time for the whole family!
What to Expect
Two weekends of family-friendly Halloween fun at the zoo
Event Details
Duration
9am - 3pm daily
Ages
Family-friendly, recommended for ages 4-12 for trick-or-treating and contests
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
North Carolina Zoo
Food & Drink
Trick-or-treating candy provided. Food and beverage vendors available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and fun
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking is available in the North America and Africa parking lots. Accessible parking spaces are available. Bus and RV parking is also available.
- Accessibility: Boo Quiet Sensory Area available. Guests requiring assistance with service animals should check in with Guest Services.
- Pets: No pets allowed. Service animals welcome.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to purchase Boo wristbands, as sales end at 2 p.m. daily and no advance sales are available.
- Bring your own reusable bag for trick-or-treating, as outside containers are not permitted; an official Boo Bag will be provided with your wristband.
- Consider visiting the new Boo Quiet Sensory Area if your child needs a break from the event's excitement.
- Check the costume guidelines carefully, especially regarding face coverings for participants 13 and older, and ensure costumes are safe for zoo navigation.
- While general zoo admission is required, the Boo activities have an additional cost; purchase your wristband at the Africa or North America admission booths.
Special Events & Promotions
- New Boo Quiet Sensory Area
- Pumpkin Patch from Sexton Farms
- Costume contests for various age groups
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost for Boo at the Zoo?
There is an extra cost in addition to Zoo admission: $10 for guests and Zoo member guests; $8 for NC Zoo Society members. Wristbands are required for all participants and can be purchased at the Africa or North America admission booths.
Can I bring my own trick-or-treat bag?
No, outside pumpkins, Halloween bags, or other outside containers for trick-or-treating are not permitted. With your wristband, you will receive an official Boo Bag to collect candy.
What are the costume guidelines?
Costumes must be family-friendly, with no scary costumes or excessive skin exposure. For participants 13 and older, masks, makeup, or face paint cannot cover the face. Costumes should not resemble weapons or pose safety hazards.
Are there activities for children who need a quieter experience?
Yes, a new Boo Quiet Sensory Area is available at Oak Hill, designed for children and adults who may need a break from the busy event environment, offering a calm and welcoming space.
What is the schedule for the event?
Activities run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, including trick-or-treating on the Africa Loop, games, face painting, and crafts in the Africa Amphitheater. Costume contests are held at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.
More Halloween Events Near Asheboro
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.