Unforgettable Halloween Fun: ZooBoo Returns to Fresno Chaffee Zoo!

Alright, Halloween lovers, get ready! One of the most cherished events in the Central Valley, ZooBoo, is back to cast its spell over the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. Seriously, mark your calendars because this is a can't-miss experience for families looking to add a little extra magic to their October festivities. We're talking about three whole evenings of pure, unadulterated Halloween fun!

Picture this: the zoo, all decked out in shimmering Halloween lights, pumpkins, and eerie-yet-adorable decorations. It's truly a sight to behold! This year, ZooBoo promises an absolutely fantastic lineup from October 22nd to 24th, 2026, running from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM each night. Just think of all the amazing memories you'll create as your little ones, and maybe even you, wander through the beautifully transformed zoo grounds in your Halloween best.

What exactly awaits you? Well, it's quite a treat! Guests can look forward to classic trick-or-treating stations, which, let's be honest, is always a highlight. You'll also encounter a whimsical array of costumed characters roaming about, ready for a photo op or a friendly wave. Plus, there are captivating magic shows, truly up-close animal encounters that are both educational and thrilling, and plenty of picture-perfect fall photo opportunities to capture those precious moments. Oh, and for those curious minds, there will even be fascinating presentations about bats – how cool is that?

Now, about getting in: tickets are required, and it's always a good idea to grab them in advance, you know, to avoid any last-minute rushes. For non-members, adults (12 & up) are $22.00, and children (2-11) are $20.00. But if you're a zoo member, you get a nice little discount: adults (12 & up) are $18.00, and children (2-11) are $16.00. And the littlest ghouls and goblins, those under 2 years old, get in absolutely free! Just a friendly heads-up: all ticket sales are final, non-refundable, and non-transferable, and they're valid only for the date you purchase. Also, don't let a little drizzle deter you – the event goes on, rain or shine!

A quick note on logistics: on the ZooBoo event days (October 22, 23, and 24), the zoo is open for general admission from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, which is a completely separate experience from the evening's Halloween festivities. Parking isn't included with your admission; there's a $5 per car fee charged by the City of Fresno at Roeding Park, so just be prepared for that. Good news though for those needing it, wheelchair-accessible spaces are conveniently located right near the Zoo entrance.

But wait, there's more! The fun doesn't stop with ZooBoo itself. Animal lovers and their furry friends will be thrilled about Sniffari Night: ZooBoo Edition on October 25th, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This special evening allows well-behaved, leashed dogs to join their owners in exploring the zoo, complete with trick-or-treating, a pooch parade, and even a costume contest for your canine companions. And if you're around on Halloween day itself, October 31st, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, don't miss the Fall Enrichment Festival, where you can watch the zoo animals enjoy their very own autumn-themed treats and activities. Seriously, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo really goes all out for fall!