October carries whispers of something exciting at the San Diego Zoo. As twilight descends and shadows grow long, the Zoo transforms into a luminescent wonderland where glowing jack-o'-lanterns cast dancing shadows and mysterious friends emerge from the darkness.
Every weekend in October, join us for HalGLOWeen. This unforgettable after-dark spectacular combines Halloween magic with the wonder of wildlife. You’ll feel your senses come alive as acrobatic spiders weave their webs high above Wildlife Explorers Basecamp and mariachi music echoes through pathways lined with bewitching decorations. Let’s see what ghoulishly good times are in store on your journey through glowing avenues.
You'll see reptiles in a whole new light on Python Path.
Where the Night Comes Alive
Your HalGLOWeen adventure begins the moment you enter the Zoo. DJ Front Street fills the evening air with Halloween hits, spinning the perfect soundtrack to kick off your night. It’ll get your ghoulish toes tapping to everything from classic monster mashups to modern spooky favorites.
Nearby, you’ll spot some real showstoppers: the Boo Crew. These whimsical stilt-walkers welcome you with silly photo opportunities that you’ll treasure for years to come. And don't miss the Python Path experience near the Klauber-Shaw Reptile House. After dark, the space transforms with glowing effects that showcase reptiles in an entirely new light.
Snap selfies with the whimsical Boo Crew.
Feeling brave? Tempt your tastebuds with dynamite Goblin Fries at Sweet Shack or absurdly gourd Pumpkin Nachos at Sandwich Co. And, quench your otherworldly thirst with Java Cart's delicious Chai-You-Later and the intriguing Frog’s Breath at the Oasis Lounge.
Spine-Tingling Entertainment
Over at Centennial Plaza, Boolahoops transforms traditional hula hooping into a glow-in-the-dark dance party. These sessions happen every hour and include family-friendly games and enough Halloween hits to get everyone jumping, shuffling, sliding, and spinning. During the break from Boolahoops, Dr. Zoolittle's Tricks & Treats brings wildlife trivia and interactive activities to the mix.
Test your knowledge with Dr. Zoolittle's wildlife trivia.
Next, slither into Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, where Featured Creatures introduces you to “spooky” wildlife ambassadors. But don’t be afraid, these intriguing and friendly encounters reveal that many misunderstood species play crucial roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems. After your thrilling experience, look to the skies above Desert Dunes. Here the talented acrobatic performers showcase their arachnid-inspired skills with the Spider’s W.E.B.
Meanwhile, the neon-colored singing pumpkins, The Glow-Go's, perform original songs and crack silly jokes all night long at the Busy Bee Patio. Their animated antics guarantee smiles for wildlife explorers of all ages. While you’re there, sink your fangs into the saucy, spicy Día de los Muertos Burger at Busy Bee Café.
Look to the skies to see the Spider's W.E.B. showcasing their arachnid-inspired skills.
Spooky Spectacles
On your way to the Outback, take a detour down Treetops Way to fuel up with the shockingly delightful Frankenstein Matcha Latte at Zoo Brew. It’ll give you the boost you need before you watch Spooky Revue deliver a kooky assortment of wildlife-themed specialty acts in a fluorescent acrobatic variety show at Sydney’s Grill.
It's all (acrobatic) tricks and yummy treats at Sydney's Grill in the Outback.
At the Boardwalk Beer Garden, there’s more to discover as you indulge in a delectable Bloody Scream Margarita while The Dusty Keys bring haunting melodies to life with eerie and spirited organ music. Plus, the Zoo's beloved Dr. Harry & Friends appear in Halloween costumes for special meet-and-greet sessions for even more exciting photo ops with familiar faces.
For those seeking other liquid courage throughout the rest of the Zoo, the Bamboo Bar serves up the PuAntu's Purple People Eater Cocktail, while Albert’s offers both the Tasmanian Devil Mocktail and the Scare-Crow Cocktail—whatever your spirited taste, we’ve got you covered. And if you have a sweet tooth calling from beyond the grave, haunt your way over to Hua Mei Cones for a frighteningly delicious Grave Dirt Sundae.
From mocktails to cocktails, satisfying refreshments await you across the Zoo.
Strolling Strings
Stay awhile in Elephant Odyssey and add a touch of tradition to your night with Día de los Muertos Mariachi. Music lovers won’t want to miss their promenading performances that celebrate the season in glowing style. As you enjoy the tunes, feast on Sabertooth Grill's mouthwatering Boo-Laquiles Torta.
Add a touch of tradition to your evening with with Día de los Muertos Mariachi.
Let’s Glow
Are you ready for a month of glittering, glimmering thrills? This treasured extravaganza runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout October. Make sure to download the San Diego Zoo app to plan your route and catch all the must-see entertainment. Every HalGLOWeen visit, you’ll create memories that will last far beyond the season while supporting wildlife conservation efforts worldwide.
Discover how you’re making a difference for wildlife worldwide through our eight Conservation Hubs.
