Three cartoon children, two boys and one girl, are standing in front of a carousel with pumpkins and autumn decorations. The children are smiling and appear to be enjoying a festive fall event.
family_friendly

Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Potawatomi Zoo Boo

Zoo Boo with themed weekends and character actors

About

Celebrate Halloween at Potawatomi Zoo's Zoo Boo! This family-friendly event features trick-or-treating, festive decorations, and animal encounters. Ride the Haunted Train or the Enchanted Carousel for extra fun. The event spans two weekends with themed character actors, offering a magical and spooky experience for all ages.

Our Take

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 (3/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families and children

Vibe

Festive, spooky, community-oriented

Energy Level

Medium

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Themed weekends: Princesses & Heroes and Witches & Wizardry
  • Haunted Train (scary after dark)
  • Enchanted Carousel
  • Giraffe Feeding (specific hours)

Tags

family friendlyhalloween festivaltrick or treatpumpkin patchcommunity eventhaunted traincarnival

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.

Location

500 S. Greenlawn Ave.
South Bend, IN
46615

Event Details

Pricing

$16 (Adults 15+), $14 (Children 2-14)

Duration

Multiple dates and times over two weekends

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Potawatomi Zoo

Practical Information

Accessibility

The zoo offers accessibility information on their plan your trip page.

Pet Policy

No full-face masks on guests 15 years or older.

Food & Drink

Concessions available

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early on weekend days, especially for the first weekend (Princesses & Heroes), to maximize your experience and minimize wait times for popular attractions.
  • Check the specific themed weekend schedule (Princesses & Heroes or Witches & Wizardry) to plan your visit around your favorite characters and activities.
  • Purchase attraction tickets for the Haunted Train and Enchanted Carousel in advance or upon arrival to ensure availability, especially during peak hours.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday evening if available, as it may offer a less crowded experience compared to weekend afternoons.
  • Dress in layers as the event runs into the evening, and check the weather forecast as it is a rain or shine event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates and times for Zoo Boo?

Zoo Boo runs on October 17-18 from 2-9 pm, October 19 from 10 am-5 pm, October 24-25 from 2-9 pm, and October 26 from 10 am-5 pm.

What is included with admission?

General admission includes entry to the zoo, trick-or-treating with vendor partners, and access to see the animals, pumpkins, lights, and decorations. Attraction rides like the Haunted Train and Carousel require separate tickets.

Are there any special themes or characters?

Yes, the first weekend features Princesses & Heroes, and the second weekend is Witches & Wizardry, with character actors present in the zoo.

Can I purchase tickets at the gate?

Yes, advance tickets are not required, and there is only one line to get into the zoo. Zoo members receive discounts when purchasing at the gate with valid ID and membership.

Is Zoo Boo a rain or shine event?

Yes, Zoo Boo is a rain or shine event, so plan accordingly.

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Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 11, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team

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