Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Zoo are proud to announce the return of Louisville’s premier Halloween event. Marking its 45th year, Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer invites families to enjoy festive fall fun on Thursday through Sunday evenings, Oct. 1-30. Tickets are on sale now at louisvillezoo.org/boo.
Tickets are all-inclusive and include Boo at the Zoo admission, parking, Spooktacular Carousel, “not-so-itsy-bitsy” Spider House and the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow attraction.
Children and adults are invited to dress up in their wildest costumes for the after-hours event.
Boo at the Zoo turns the Zoo into a living storybook, complete with favorite characters brought to life. There will be music, photo opportunities around every corner and, of course, a safe place to trick-or-treat for kids 11 and under. Guests are encouraged to bring their own trick-or-treat bags, but reusable treat bags will be available for purchase at the Zoo’s Gift Shop (while supplies last).
“Louisville is a city that loves Halloween, and few traditions capture that spirit better than Boo at the Zoo.” said Mayor Greenberg. “For 45 years, generations of families have made memories at this beloved event, and it continues to be one of our community’s favorite ways to celebrate the season. We’re grateful to the Louisville Zoo and all the staff and volunteers who help create this special experience year after year.”
“The staff is so proud to provide Louisville’s favorite merry, not scary Halloween tradition for 45 years now,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “We are honored to help bring families together to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. Seeing generations of guests return year after year is what makes this event so special, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable season.”
Tickets
Tickets for “Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer” are $14.25 for all non-members ages 3 and older and $8.50 for Louisville Zoo members ages 3 and older. Children ages 2 and under are free and do not require a ticket.
General admission and Louisville Zoo member tickets can be purchased online at louisvillezoo.org/boo. Guests will need to choose their date and arrival time with ticket capacity limited each night and popular event evenings expected to sell out quickly.
A limited number of Meijer “anytime tickets” can be purchased at participating Meijer stores for $12.25 starting September 12, 2026. Visit louisvillezoo.org/boo for a list of stores.
“Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer” is a rain or shine event.
Sponsors
Boo at the Zoo is presented by Meijer. Area sponsors include Ford Motor Company, Long John Silver’s, Norton Children’s, PNC Grow Up Great and UPS. Additional support provided by Councilwoman Josie Raymond & District 10 residents, Councilman Anthony Piagentini and District 19 residents, Ky Saves and Nu Yale.
“Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer” provides critical support every year to the Zoo’s animal care programs, visitor experience, and conservation education.
Event Hours
On “Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer” event days:
The Zoo will close early for regular daytime visitors. Gates will close at 3 p.m. with guests being allowed to visit until 4 p.m.
The party starts at 5 p.m. and Halloween guests will enter the Zoo at their ticketed time until 9 p.m. At 10 p.m., the trick-or-treat route will close, and all guests must exit the Zoo.
Special Dates:
Sensory-Friendly Night at Boo at the Zoo
Wednesday, October 7; Enter 5 – 7 p.m., exit by 8 p.m.
This night will feature a sensory-friendly trick-or-treating experience with fewer lights, lower music, and smaller crowds. Tickets are very limited so purchase early to reserve your spot.
Firefighter Night at Boo at the Zoo
Saturday, October 24
This night will feature area firefighters who will greet guests, hand out candy at the trick-or-treat stations, and help celebrate this beloved Louisville Halloween tradition.
Allergy-Friendly Night
Wednesday, October 28; Enter 5 – 7p.m., exit by 8 p.m.
This special night features peanut-free treat booths and added non-food treats like stickers, pencils, and more.
Costume Fun
The Zoo encourages all visitors to wear family-friendly costumes. Adults may join in the fun, however full costume masks that cover the entire face are not permitted for adults.
To learn more about costume guidelines, the event and “Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer” activities, visit louisvillezoo.org/boo.
Animal Schedules:
While you may catch a glimpse of some of our animals, most of the Zoo’s animal ambassadors will not be viewable in the evenings so they can rest and maintain their regular schedules.
Regular Zoo Hours:
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through September 20, 2026, hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with guests exiting by 6 p.m. Beginning September 21, 2026 – March 19, 2027, hours will be 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. with guest exiting by 5 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information on hours and admission.
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The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) which is a global alliance of zoos and aquariums. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
