Boo At The Zoo Returns To Philly Zoo In October

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Zoo is gearing up for the return of Boo at the Zoo this October.

Boo at the Zoo will be open for three weekends — Friday Oct. 26 through Sunday, Oct. 18; Friday, Oct. 23 to Sunday, Oct. 25; and Friday, Oct. 30 to Sunday, Nov. 1 — from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Kids of all ages are invited to come out with their families in their favorite costumes and set out on a not-so-spooky safari. (Halloween costumes with toy guns and weapons are prohibited.)

Ticket times and reservations will go on sale on Oct. 1 online here. Admission for Boo at the Zoo is free with the regular price of admission.

Instead of trick or treating around the zoo, there will be treat bags given away courtesy of Mars.

The annual not-so-scary extinction graveyard will showcase extinct animals and animals the zoo is trying to save from extinction.

Fall food and drink special offerings will include hot apple cider, sweets and treats, and more to be announced soon.

New for this year, post your families favorite photo on Instagram and tag @philadelphiazoo and hashtag #booatthezoophilly for a chance to win prizes and have your photo shared on the Philadelphia Zoo Instagram page. One or more photos will be shared each day during Boo at the Zoo for an online, virtual costume "parade" via Instagram Stories.

The first place prize will be a Family Membership valued at $135 with benefits for all members including admission for two named adults and two children under the age of 18. Second prize will be four complimentary Zoo tickets (made via an online reservation code). Third place will be a family four-pack of coronavirus Zoo-themed animal masks.

All health and safety precautions are in place for Boo at the Zoo, including the wearing of coronavirus-safe face masks and practicing social distancing.

Below are the zoo's current safety protocols:

• All visitors MUST reserve / pre-purchase timed-tickets for admission.
• Tickets will not be available for purchase onsite.
• Social distancing and Masks are required for guests 2+
• Indoor animal exhibits and attractions remain closed.
• Touchless toilets, faucets, paper towel and soap dispensers.
• Hand sanitizing stations throughout the campus.
• More grab and go food selections and touchless transactions at food locations.
• Guests can bring their own food in the Zoo.
• "Clean Team" — staffers dedicated to sanitizing and cleaning high touch areas.

Please note that while costumes are welcome for children, masks must be worn on all children and adults age 2 and older.