Boo at the Zoo
Guests can dress up in costume and trick-or-treat at stations across the zoo using a complimentary souvenir goodie bag. The event features festive skeleton scenes, a pumpkin patch, and a kids dance party. Attendees also get after-hours access to the Small Mammal House, Elephant Community Center, and Reptile Discovery Center.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Tickets are $35; Zoo members save 15% on admission. Parking is not included and costs $30 in advance or $40 on the day of the event. The Conservation Carousel and National Zoo Choo Choo cost an additional fee.
Hours
General admission: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (last entry at 8 p.m.); Zoo members get early access at 5 p.m.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Cleveland Park/Woodley Park
Food & Drink
Treat stations offer sweets, snacks, and other surprises; some stations have hard candy and small toys, and the event is not nut-free.
Parking
Parking is not included with admission. Parking passes cost $30 when purchased ahead of time and $40 on the day of the event. Drivers should enter through the main vehicle entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW. Daytime parking passes and annual member parking passes are not valid for this after-hours event. The page recommends buying a parking pass online before the visit.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Purchase parking passes online ahead of time, as regular member parking and daytime passes are not valid for this event.
- Costumes are encouraged, but adults may not wear full-faced masks, and weapon-like props, balloons, and scooters are prohibited.
- Check candy ingredient labels carefully if anyone in your group has allergies, as the event is not nut-free.
Special Events & Promotions
- Zoo members receive 15% off up to six tickets; up to six additional tickets per order can be purchased at the general admission rate.
- Members can purchase tickets beginning Aug. 20, one week before general-public sales begin Aug. 27.
- A new pumpkin patch is featured this season.
Links & Contact
Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can visitors wear costumes?
Costumes are encouraged for all ages, but adults may not wear full-faced masks, and items like weapon props, balloons, skates, hoverboards, and scooters are prohibited.
Will live animals be visible during the event?
While it is not primarily an animal event, tickets include after-hours access to the Small Mammal House, Reptile Discovery Center, and Elephant Community Center.
Do young children need their own ticket?
Adults and children over 2 years old must have their own ticket to attend.
Is Boo at the Zoo a nut-free event?
No, it is not a nut-free event, though select treat stations offer alternatives like hard candy and small toys.
Can tickets be refunded or exchanged?
Tickets are nonrefundable, but exchanges may be requested up to 48 hours before the event date, subject to availability.
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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. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.