Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Announces Lineup of Halloween Events

Though the ghosts, goblins and ghouls of Halloween are still a couple months away, it’s not too early to start filling your spooky season calendar, and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has a great way to start. And with two fan-favorite events returning to the zoo, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.

“The tradition of celebrating Halloween at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is returning in a big way this October with four weeks of festive fun,” Kelly Manderfield, chief marketing officer for the Cleveland Metroparks, said in an Aug. 25, press release. “Thanks to our partners, we’re able to offer three exclusive experiences for all ages to enjoy, including the long-awaited return of Boo at the Zoo where guests can once again experience the thrill of trick-or-treating after dark.”

Whether you’re planning to bring the family and gather as many sweets as possible or enjoy a popular 21-and-over event with friends, get ready to put on your best costume and head to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo this October to check out these three events.

Boo at the Zoo: After a six-year hiatus, Boo at the Zoo is back and bigger than ever. Running Thursday through Sunday evenings Oct. 2 through 26, this after-hours event is family-friendly, meaning there are no jumpscares to fear. Families can enjoy immersive Halloween displays that make for great photo ops and take the kids trick-or-treating at 12 different candy stations. (Each night, the first 1,000 attendees get a free trick-or-treat bag). Costumed character meet-and-greets, a Monster Mash Dance Party and free rides on the zoo’s boomerang train complete the fun. Tickets are $19 for members and $21 for non-members, with additional ticket bundles available.

Howl-O-Ween Bash: Returning for one night only on Oct. 24, this fan-favorite event is exclusively for the 21-and-over crowd. From 6 to 10 p.m., the zoo transforms into a full-fledged Halloween celebration featuring live music, DJs and a silent disco, as well as stilt walkers, magicians and tarot card readers to bring a bit of mystic fun. Coming in costume is encouraged, and visitors can even enter a costume contest as part of the festivities. Admission is $30 for members and $35 for non-members, and snacks are included, with additional food and drinks options available for an extra cost.

Halloween 5K: Though Halloween may encourage you to run out of fear, this Halloween 5K is all in good fun. Pair your running shoes with your best Halloween costume and visit the zoo for its first-ever Halloween 5K. Stepping off at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, runners and walkers are invited to participate in this festive race that takes them throughout the zoo. All participants receive a custom T-shirt and medal. Registration is open now and costs $30 through Oct. 23. The registration fee will increase to $35 starting Oct. 24.

For tickets and information about the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Halloween events, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo.

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