What’s cuter than a picture of Fiona the hippo eating a pumpkin? Watching her eat one in real life — which you can do during HallZOOween weekends at the Cincinnati Zoo.
Yes: the annual HallZOOween festival is going ahead this year, with some COVID precautions in place.
“We’ve had to reimagine most of our events this year for the safety of visitors and staff,” said Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard. “For HallZOOween, we’ll be offering pre-stuffed treat bags instead of inviting kids to trick or treat at multiple stations around the Zoo. We’re also limiting attendance to ensure that Voldemort and Harry Potter and can stay a zebra length apart on Zoo grounds.”
From 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25, kids ages 2-12 will get a voucher for a free, pre-filled treat bag; animals will get special pumpkins; the Hogwart’s Express train and Scare-ousel will be running; and festive fall food will be available.
Costumes are encouraged and masks/facial coverings that adhere to CDC guidelines are still required. (Read full costume and mask info here: cincinnatizoo.org/events/hallzooween.)
HallZOOween is free with zoo admission and reservations are still required for all guests, including members, to ensure capacity limits.
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is located at 3400 Vine St., Avondale. More info and tickets: cincinnatizoo.org.
This article appears in The Fall Guide.
