Did you know that furry, fanged, and winged creatures at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo love Halloween?
Celebrate with them for three nights, from October 16-18, 2026, at Boo at the Zoo!
Wear your Halloween best and explore the Zoo, stopping at treat stations along the way to fill your free souvenir goodie bag with sweets, snacks, and other fun surprises. Throughout the Zoo, skeleton scenes and festive decor set the stage for a Halloween adventure that’s more treats than tricks!
Keep the celebration going at a kids’ dance party, or gather family and friends for a photo in the new pumpkin patch. Guests can also take a spin on the Conservation Carousel or hop aboard the National Zoo Choo Choo for an additional fee.
Your ticket includes exclusive after-hours access to the Small Mammal House, Elephant Community Center, and Reptile Discovery Center, too.
Tickets for this special event, as well as on-site parking, go on sale to the public August 27 — Zoo members can purchase now, save on tickets, and enjoy exclusive early entry. This popular event is known to sell out, so don’t wait!
Get to know this destination! Offering free admission daily (special events are fee-based), the National Zoo, a Smithsonian institution founded in 1889, is one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
A diverse variety of animal life calls this 163-acre park home, including 2,700 animals representing more than 390 species. Click here to explore all they have to offer!
Details:
Website
Dates:
Oct 16-18, 2026
Location:
National Zoo ∙ Wash, DC
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
