Boo at the Zoo has been taking over Buttonwood Park Zoo every October since 2001. We were all a little worried that this beloved event wouldn’t make a comeback in 2020 due to COVID-19, but BPZ just confirmed that you have nothing to fear. Well, almost nothing. It is Halloween after all.

This slightly spooky event returns with a few extra precautions to keep you and your little ghouls and goblins safe. Boo at the Zoo will take place during the daytime hours, so the whole family can join in the fall fun.

You can participate in Boo at the Zoo from 10 am to 6 pm starting on Saturday, October 17. It will take place each weekend through Halloween, which happens to be on a Saturday this year.

If you have a baby ghost at home, they might enjoy Baby Boo, which is geared towards kids ages five and under. Baby Boo will run from 9 am to 2 pm on Friday, October 23, and Friday, October 30.

“Dress the kids in their favorite costume and come explore all that BPZOO has to offer! We’ll provide families with a socially-distanced, walk-through experience, with some twists and turns along the way. Our slightly spooky theme will include mazes, a scavenger hunt, plenty of trick-or-treat stations, endless photo opportunities including a photo costume contest, Halloween themed animal enrichment, and up-close meet and greets with the Zoo’s Animal Ambassadors. Plus, lots of seasonal treats from the Bear's Den Cafe. Families are encouraged to bring their own “trick or treat” bags. All proceeds from Boo at the Zoo support the Zoo’s education and family programs.”

In addition to all the activities you’re used to seeing, BPZ has added a pumpkin decorating contest this year. “Each pumpkin must be submitted with a Pumpkin Decorating Entry Form at the Zoo on October 12 or 13. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category.”

Buttonwood Park Zoo does want to inform the public that COVID-19 safety measures have been put in place and all are expected to follow the guidelines. By purchasing your event ticket, you agree to:

  • abide by social distancing rules
  • wear a face mask throughout your visit
  • follow the one-way pathways

As a reminder: Members of Buttonwood Park Zoo who purchase tickets to Boo at the Zoo “will be granted complimentary admission to all other weekend Boo activities (Baby Boo excluded) for the remainder of October.”

Boo at the Zoo is presented by Bristol Country Savings Bank and Sponsored by Renewal by Anderson.

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