Illustration of a fall festival scene (Potawatomi Zoo Boo)
Family-Friendly Fall Activities

Potawatomi Zoo Boo

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.

More in South Bend:

What to Expect

Zoo Boo with themed weekends and character actors

Event Details

Duration

Multiple dates and times over two weekends

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Potawatomi Zoo

Food & Drink

Concessions available

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

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

Location

Potawatomi Zoo
500 S. Greenlawn Ave.
South Bend, IN
46615

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $16 (Adults 15+), $14 (Children 2-14) – Get tickets
  • Accessibility: The zoo offers accessibility information on their plan your trip page.
  • Pets: No full-face masks on guests 15 years or older.

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.

Special Events & Promotions

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

Quick Actions

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.

Tags

family friendlyhalloween festivaltrick or treatpumpkin patchcommunity eventhaunted traincarnival

More Halloween Events Near South Bend

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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 3, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team