News Summary
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is set to host three exciting Halloween-themed events this fall. The highlight is the return of ‘Boo at the Zoo’, featuring trick-or-treating, live entertainment, and themed activities for families. An adults-only ‘Howl-O-Ween Bash’ and a Halloween 5K are also on the schedule, ensuring fun for all ages. Ticket prices vary, and early registration options are available for the 5K. The events promise to create lasting memories and community engagement.
Cleveland – The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is offering a lineup of three thrilling Halloween-themed events this fall, rekindling festive traditions for families and adults alike. The centerpiece of the celebrations is the return of the beloved Boo at the Zoo, which has not occurred since 2019. This family-friendly event will take place from October 2 to October 26, every Thursday through Sunday, running from 5 to 9 p.m.
During Boo at the Zoo, guests can delight in trick-or-treating at a dozen candy stations located along Wayside Furniture Way, meet costumed characters, and dance at the lively Monster Mash Dance Party. The event also features complimentary rides on the Boomerang train, provided by MetroHealth. Additionally, the first 1,000 guests each evening will receive a free trick-or-treat bag generously donated by Meijer.
Ticket prices for Boo at the Zoo are set at $19 for members and $21 for non-members, with special four-pack options available at $68 for members and $76 for non-members. Children under the age of two can enter for free. Tickets are currently being sold at FutureForWildlife.org/Boo.
In addition to Boo at the Zoo, an exciting adults-only event named Howl-O-Ween Bash is scheduled for Friday, October 24, from 6 to 10 p.m. This 21+ gathering invites attendees to showcase their best costumes. The Bash will feature a variety of entertainment options including live bands, a DJ, silent disco, magicians, stilt walkers, henna tattoo artists, and tarot card readers. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a lively costume contest during the event.
The ticket price for the Howl-O-Ween Bash is $30 for members and $35 for non-members. The ticket includes snacks, while additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.
The festivities culminate with the inaugural Halloween 5K on Saturday, October 25, starting at 8:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to embrace the spirit of Halloween by dressing in costumes as they walk or run through the Zoo. Early registration for the Halloween 5K costs $30 until October 23, with the price increasing to $35 from October 24 through race day. All 5K participants will be awarded a custom race t-shirt and a commemorative medal.
The event lineup emphasizes immersive Halloween displays and festive activities suitable for all ages, ensuring a diverse range of experiences for families and adults in the community to enjoy.
Kelly Manderfield, Chief Marketing Officer at Cleveland Metroparks, expressed optimism for the return of Halloween festivities at the Zoo, highlighting the excitement surrounding these community-oriented events. The Halloween celebrations at the Zoo have gained considerable support from sponsors including Wayside Furniture, CrossCountry Mortgage, MetroHealth Medical System, and Meijer, contributing to a larger effort to foster community engagement and enjoyment during the Halloween season.
The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo, Howl-O-Ween Bash, and Halloween 5K promise to offer thrilling experiences for all visitors, creating lasting memories and celebrating the spirit of Halloween.
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Additional Resources
- Audacy: Howl-O-Ween Bash at Cleveland Metroparks
- Cleveland Metroparks News: Halloween Events
- WKYC: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Halloween Events
- Cleveland.com: Halloween Events at Cleveland Metroparks
- Wikipedia: Halloween

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