Brookfield Zoo Chicago is once again transforming into a Halloween wonderland with the highly anticipated return of its family-friendly “Boo! at the Zoo” event. Throughout the entire month of October 2025, visitors are invited to explore the zoo grounds adorned with festive decorations and partake in a variety of not-so-scary activities designed to enjoy for all ages.
A Month of Ghoulishly Good Fun
Running daily from October 4 through October 31, 2025, “Boo! at the Zoo” offers a magical Halloween experience that blends seasonal fun with the zoo’s commitment to conservation and education. Weekdays will feature the zoo’s regular attractions alongside Halloween-themed food and drinks, and trick-or-treating opportunities at select retail locations. As the weekends arrive, the celebration amplifies with special programming, ensuring a frightfully delightful time for everyone who visits Chicago’s beloved animal haven.
Weekend Wonders and Special Activities
Weekends during October at Brookfield Zoo Chicago will be particularly lively, offering enhanced activities for families to enjoy. Visitors can look forward to trick-or-treating stations located on the East Mall, captivating magic shows, and special “Zoo Chats” where keepers share fascinating facts about creatures often associated with the spooky season, such as bats, snakes, and wolves. Costume parades will march through the zoo, giving children a chance to showcase their creative Halloween attire. Families can also capture memorable moments at various Halloween-themed photo opportunities scattered throughout the park, featuring giant inflatables and festive cut-outs.
This year also introduces a new element to the Sunday festivities: the “Boo! at the Zoo Art Fair.” This juried event will feature local artisans and small businesses showcasing artwork inspired by animals, conservation, and the natural world, aligning perfectly with the zoo’s mission.
Animal Encounters with a Halloween Twist
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s animal residents will also get into the Halloween spirit. Guests can observe special animal enrichment activities where some of the zoo’s animals, including capybaras, polar bears, and gorillas, receive pumpkins to play with, smash, and nibble on. This not only provides entertainment for visitors but also offers a unique way for the animals to engage with their environment.
Special Events for Every Taste
Beyond the daily and weekend offerings, “Boo! at the Zoo” encompasses several special ticketed events. On Sunday, October 19, families can indulge in the “Boo! Brunch” at The Pavilions, featuring a Halloween-themed buffet, DJ, face painting, and a pumpkin decorating station. Zoo admission is included with brunch tickets, allowing for a full day of exploration before or after the meal. For adults seeking a more spirited evening, “Zoo After Dark: BOOs & Brews” will take place on Saturday, October 25, from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM. This 21-and-over event promises specialty drinks, a costume contest, live music, and a dance party.
Planning Your Visit
Admission to “Boo! at the Zoo” is free with general zoo admission or zoo membership, though some special activities may require an additional fee. Visitors are encouraged to check the zoo’s website for the most up-to-date schedule and any weather-related changes. When planning your trip to Brookfield Zoo Chicago, remember to dress in layers to accommodate Chicago’s unpredictable autumn weather and be mindful of costume guidelines; guests over 13 are not permitted to wear full-body costumes with heads covered during daytime hours for safety reasons. Real or fake weapons are also prohibited. Families can explore the zoo at their own pace, taking advantage of stroller-friendly pathways and finding quiet spots for breaks. With a wide array of activities, “Boo! at the Zoo” promises a memorable and enjoyable Halloween celebration for all.
