🎃 Boo at the Zoo: A Must‑Attend Halloween Tradition for Atlanta Families

Every fall, Zoo Atlanta transforms into a magical, family‑friendly Halloween wonderland during Boo at the Zoo, Atlanta’s favorite Halloween festival for children and caregivers. Families return year after year because this event blends wildlife, costumes, candy, live entertainment, and fall fun into one unforgettable seasonal celebration.

Boo at the Zoo is designed for families with children of all ages, especially toddlers through tweens, though teens and adults enjoy the festive atmosphere as well. The event focuses on creating memories, not collecting the biggest candy haul, making it perfect for families who want a safe, joyful Halloween experience.

🎃 Event Dates and Times

Boo at the Zoo runs across two full weekends and Halloween day:

• October 17th, 18th, 24th, 25th, and 31st
• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Entertainment and activities are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

🎟️ Tickets and Admission: What Your Ticket Includes

Boo at the Zoo is FREE for Zoo Atlanta Members and children under 3, and FREE with general admission for all other guests.

Your ticket includes:

• Trick‑or‑treating at approximately eight treat stations
• A complimentary Boo at the Zoo treat bag (while supplies last)
• Halloween‑themed kids’ crafts for all ages
• Carnival games with fun prizes
• Family‑friendly live performances at the Zambezi Elephant Center
• Seasonal décor, pumpkins, hay bales, and friendly spooks
• Strolling characters from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for photo ops
• Themed photo sets throughout the Zoo
• Two exclusive trading cards, plus a third for Zoo Members

Zoo Atlanta Members do not need a timed reservation for Boo at the Zoo.

🍬 Trick‑or‑Treating with a Conservation Mission

Zoo Atlanta distributes candy containing sustainable palm oil or no palm oil, supporting wildlife conservation and eco‑friendly practices.

Trick‑or‑treating is complimentary and intended for kids.

🎨 Kids’ Crafts and Activities

Children can enjoy hands‑on Halloween crafts, including:

• Handprint paper candy apple craft
• Spooky clothespin paper puppets

These crafts help kids express creativity while celebrating fall.

🎭 Live Entertainment: Full Performance Schedule

All performances take place at the Zambezi Elephant Center.

Saturday, October 17

• 10:30 a.m. – Ghoulish Grooves with Alyssa
• 12:30 p.m. – “Mad Sciences” with Science Guys of Atlanta
• 2:30 p.m. – “Mad Sciences” with Science Guys of Atlanta

Sunday, October 18

• 10:30 a.m. – Captain Crimmins & the Story Boat Band
• 12:30 p.m. – Magic of Tommy Johns
• 2:30 p.m. – Magic of Tommy Johns

Saturday, October 24

• 10:30 a.m. – Princess & Prince Performance
• 12:30 p.m. – Ghoulish Grooves with Alyssa
• 2:30 p.m. – Princess & Prince Performance

Sunday, October 25

• 10:30 a.m. – “Mad Sciences” with Science Guys of Atlanta
• 12:30 p.m. – “Mad Sciences” with Science Guys of Atlanta
• 2:30 p.m. – Princess & Prince Performance

Saturday, October 31

• 10:30 a.m. – “Mad Sciences” with Science Guys of Atlanta
• 12:30 p.m. – Flow with Libby Seger
• 1:30 p.m. – Magician Tommy Johns
• 2:30 p.m. – Flow with Libby Seger

👻 Special Attractions

“Jinxed” VR Ghost Train Ride

A limited‑time immersive virtual reality experience at the Wild Explorer VR station. Additional purchase required.

🎭 Costumes and Guidelines

Costumes are encouraged, but must be family‑friendly. Zoo Atlanta provides clear guidelines to ensure safety and comfort for all guests:

• No obstructive, offensive, gory, or violent costumes
• No weapons or weapon‑like items
• No sharp or pointed objects
• No large inflatable costumes (they may spook animals)
• Adults may dress up but may not wear costume masks covering the face

🌧️ Rain‑or‑Shine Event

Boo at the Zoo happens rain or shine, though some activities may be delayed or canceled due to weather.

🎃 Why Boo at the Zoo Is a Must‑Attend Event

Boo at the Zoo is more than a Halloween festival. It is a celebration of imagination, wildlife, creativity, and community. Families love the safe environment, the variety of activities, the live entertainment, and the chance to enjoy Halloween in a magical setting filled with friendly spooks and fall charm.

It is perfect for:

• Toddlers
• Preschoolers
• Elementary‑age children
• Tweens
• Families seeking safe, joyful Halloween fun