The Fort Worth Zoo’s annual Halloween bash is back with pumpkin decorating, trick-or-treating, and festivities for the whole family. The annual Boo at the Zoo event will take place Halloween weekend starting Friday, Oct. 27-Sunday, Oct. 29.

Family-friendly entertainment

Throughout the weekend, the zoo will host “keeper chats” where visitors can ask questions and learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts in the wild. Zoo animals will also receive Halloween-themed toys + food items to celebrate the spooky season. Other family-friendly activities include a magic show, Halloween-themed crafts + a chalk obstacle course. Here are a couple of other noteworthy activities.

🍬 Trick-or-Treat
Bring a candy bucket and go trick-or-treating throughout the zoo using treat coupons. Six coupons are included with admission tickets — one coupon will get you four pieces of candy. Additional treat coupons can be purchased throughout the zoo.

🎃 Pumpkin Patch
Check out the pumpkins hand-painted by local residents and zoo staff. You can also enter your own decorated pumpkin to be on display for a chance to win a free Boo at the Zoo admission ticket. Send a picture of your pumpkin by Friday, Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. with the subject line “Boo at the Zoo pumpkin entry.”

On Oct. 23, artists whose pumpkins were selected for display will receive an email notification, along with instructions on where to drop off their pumpkins and pick up a complimentary ticket.

Know before you go

Boo at the Zoo is open during park hours from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The event is free with a zoo admission ticket, which can be purchased at the front entrance or online. Zoo members can get in for free.

Everyone is encouraged to wear a costume — guests (ages 13 and older) should wear a costume that’s appropriate for all ages + heavy makeup and masks will not be permitted.