Hauntingly Good Times Await at Jacksonville Zoo’s Spooktacular

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is getting ready for their 37th Annual Spooktacular event, and you're not going to want to miss it!

Photo byJacksonville Zoo courtesy of Fun 4 First Coast Kids

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in Jacksonville, FL, is only about an hour away from many Coastal Georgia beaches. With so many things to do in Jacksonville, it makes for a great weekend getaway anytime, but now Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has another great reason to visit this fall!

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens' Spooktacular event is back this fall. From October 4-6, 10-13, 17-20 and 24-31, families can experience an array of treats, tricks, and spine-tingling surprises throughout the Zoo.

New additions will enhance this favorite Jacksonville tradition. Trick-or-treat stations will be scattered from the main entrance to Play Park. For those brave enough, a thrilling scare zone offers chilling surprises, although it's recommended for ages 13+.

Encounters with lively characters will add to the festive atmosphere. Friendly ghosts will guide attendees through the brand-new neon maze, while hip-hop skeletons will deliver a bone-chilling performance that will have everyone dancing. By the river, a storyteller will ignite guests’ imaginations with tales of dragons.

Spooktacular isn't just about the scares – it's an event for the whole family. Visitors are encouraged to dress in their favorite family-friendly costumes and enjoy music, games and live entertainment. Halloween-themed food and beverages will be available for purchase, and unique souvenirs and gifts can be found at the Zoo gift shop and pop-up stands throughout the event.

“With new and exciting additions to Jacksonville’s beloved Halloween event, guests of all ages will be captivated by the magic and mystery of the year’s Spooktacular," said Nikki Jackson Smith, Chief Philanthropy and Marketing Officer. “From the brand-new maze to our traditional scare zone, we’ve created an event we hope everyone can enjoy while also supporting the Zoo’s conservation efforts.”

Tickets for this popular event are available online at JacksonvilleZoo.org/Spooktacular. Admission for children aged 2 and under is free. For those looking to maximize their Spooktacular experience, combo tickets return this year, allowing guests to enter the Zoo between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. and stay through Spooktacular.

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