Utica Zoo Spooktacular
Utica Zoo's Spooktacular is a festive Halloween and harvest celebration featuring trick-or-treat stations, food trucks, and vendors. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, keeper talks, and animal meet-and-greets. Costumes are encouraged for this all-ages event, making it a perfect fall outing for families.
What to Expect
Halloween and harvest celebration with trick-or-treat stations
Event Details
Duration
5 hours per day
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Amos Donnell
- Happy Haggs Dance Troup
- Jim Okey
Organizer
Utica Zoo
Food & Drink
Food trucks and vendors available
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and children
Vibe
Festive and fun
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $11 (Adults 13+), $8 (Children 2-12), Free (Zoo Members, Babies Under 2) – Get tickets
- Parking: Limited parking is available at the zoo. Overflow parking with free shuttles will be available at Utica Parkway Recreation Center and Mohawk Valley Community College.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Bring your own bag or basket to collect treats from the 13 trick-or-treat stations, as bags are not provided.
- If lines are long at one trick-or-treat station, move to another and return later, as volunteers will mark your card regardless of order.
- Consider visiting on Saturday to experience live music by Amos Donnell and performances by the Happy Haggs Dance Troup and magician Jim Okey.
- Utilize the free shuttle service from MVCC or the Parkway Recreational Center if zoo parking is full.
- All trick-or-treat stations offer nut-free candy, but if your child has allergies, double-check ingredients before consumption.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the event?
Spooktacular will take place from 10 am – 3 pm on Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19 at Utica Zoo, 1 Utica Zoo Way, Utica, NY 13501.
What is the cost to participate?
The cost for Spooktacular activities is $5 per person (required for trick-or-treat stations), in addition to Zoo admission. Zoo members receive free admission.
What should I bring to the event?
Costumes are encouraged, but inflatable costumes are not permitted. Please bring a bag or basket for treats. Pets are not allowed, except for certified service animals.
Are there allergy-friendly options available?
Yes, all trick-or-treat stations will have nut-free candy. However, it is recommended to double-check ingredients if your child has specific allergies.
What are the parking options?
Limited parking is available at the zoo. Overflow parking with free shuttles is provided at Utica Parkway Recreation Center and Mohawk Valley Community College.
More Halloween Events Near Utica
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.