Boo at the Zoo

Boo at the Zoo returns to Utah's Hogle Zoo on Saturday, October 31, from 9 AM to 3 PM. It's the zoo's daytime Halloween celebration, and it's open to all ages. The whole idea is simple: you show up in costume and trick-or-treat your way around the zoo, crossing paths with the animals and picking up wildlife facts as you go. The zoo suggests bringing your own bag or bucket, and treats are handed out while supplies last.

There are a few costume rules to keep in mind for the safety of the animals and other visitors. Full-face-covering masks, weapons or anything that looks like one, and inappropriate or graphic costumes aren't allowed. The staff also reserve the right to deny entry to anyone whose costume they deem unsafe or unsuitable, so it's best to keep things family-friendly. The day runs rain or shine, and admission tickets are nonrefundable.

If you're planning to spend the whole day there, it's worth knowing that Boo at the Zoo sits alongside BooLights, which run on select nights through October and feature pumpkins and glowing displays. There's a conservation angle, too: the zoo promotes the free PalmOil Scan app, which helps you make orangutan-friendly choices and support sustainable palm oil to protect wild habitats.

Admission is included with regular zoo admission, or free for zoo members. You can find the zoo at 2600 East Sunnyside Avenue in Salt Lake City, and the celebration runs from 9 AM to 3 PM on Halloween day.