The Denver Zoo Boo, also known as Boo at the Zoo, is an annual Halloween event held at the Denver Zoo. This event is designed to provide a fun and educational experience for families, focusing on Halloween festivities while promoting conservation and wildlife protection.
What is the Denver Zoo Boo?
The Denver Zoo Boo is a Halloween-themed event that takes place at the Denver Zoo. It features a variety of activities and attractions that cater to both children and adults, all while celebrating the spooky season and educating visitors about the natural world.
Activities at the Denver Zoo Boo
The Denver Zoo Boo offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the highlights:
Haunted House
Suitable for ages 6 and up, the Haunted House at the Denver Zoo Boo features spooky decorations and special effects, including the use of strobe lights.
Spooky Graveyard
Located near the Scutes Family Gallery, the Spooky Graveyard is a must-visit for those who love all things creepy and crawly.
Trick-or-Treat Stations
Throughout the Boo at the Zoo path, visitors can find various trick-or-treat stations where they can collect sweet treats.
Pirate’s Cove
Situated in the Australia Walkabout, the Pirate’s Cove offers a swashbuckling adventure for young and old alike.
Lighted Pumpkin Patch
In the My Big Backyard area, visitors can explore a lighted pumpkin patch, perfect for photo opportunities.
Sky Ride
For an elevated view of the zoo, guests can take a ride on the Sky Ride, available for an additional $3 fee.
Animal Encounters
During the event, visitors can enjoy special giraffe and budgie feeding experiences.
Dates and Times
The Denver Zoo Boo typically takes place over several days in October, with specific dates and times varying from year to year. In 2024, the event is scheduled for October 18-20, 25-27, and 31, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Costume Requirements and Considerations
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, the Denver Zoo has specific costume requirements:
- Costume masks and weapons are not allowed for guests 12 years or older.
- Masks for younger guests must have openings for the eyes and not obstruct peripheral vision.
- Balloons are not allowed inside the zoo for animal safety.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own trick-or-treat bags to reduce waste, but CMZoo treat bags are available for $2 if needed.
Food and Drink
During the Denver Zoo Boo, various restaurants and food outlets within the zoo are open, offering a range of food and beverage options for visitors.
Wild Fall Celebration: The New Event
In 2021, the Denver Zoo replaced Boo at the Zoo with a new event called Wild Fall, which focuses on education and connecting attendees with nature. Wild Fall features festive decorations, animal demonstrations, and professionally carved pumpkins, but does not include trick-or-treat stations.
Conclusion
The Denver Zoo Boo is a beloved annual event that offers a unique and spooktacular Halloween experience for families. With a variety of activities, animal encounters, and educational elements, the Denver Zoo Boo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to celebrate the Halloween season in a fun and engaging way.
References
- https://www.cmzoo.org/events-programs/special-events/boo-at-the-zoo/
- https://madewithgrit.com/work/denver-zoo/
- https://denvergazette.com/news/environment/denver-zoo-to-replace-boo-at-the-zoo-with-new-wild-fall-celebration/article_42abc454-18ac-11ec-b344-83d3cd238ea6.html
- https://denverzoo.org/faq/