Pumpkins, laughter and lights filled Forest Park from October 16-30, with the St. Louis Zoo opening its doors for the annual Boo at the Zoo event. Volunteers and workers helped make the event successful through entertaining activities and age-appropriate decorations.
“It was very lively, very fun,” Skylour Payne, a new zoo worker, said. “And this is perfect to bring the family to, especially the young ones, because it’s nothing scary. It’s just fun and laughter.”
Around the zoo, various displays were set up, which are a favorite among guests, because they caught the attention of patrons, making for a memorable experience.
“The entrance with the bubbles and the skeletons was my favorite part,” Lacy Weathford, an attending mom, said. “I know a lot of people were complimenting the spider webs, too.”
The zoo prides itself on welcoming people of all ages, and many residents love sharing it with their visiting families.
“I wanted to show my beautiful niece the zoo for the first time,” Lily Scanlon, a new aunt, pointing at a newborn in a baby stroller said. “We also got to see the polar bear swimming, and a family dressed as astronauts.”
As the final days of October pass, the zoo undergoes its next big change. Decorations hint that Christmas is around the corner, showcasing light fixtures that blend Halloween and holiday spirit —a unique experience for families who might want to hang on to that spooky Halloween feeling, as well as for those seeking Christmas fun just a little early.
“It’s really nice that [the zoo] combined Christmas and Halloween with the lights,” visitor Audrey Hansen said.
The Halloween atmosphere encourages costumes for all, kids and adults. Family costumes were seen, and kids showed off their favorite movie characters.
“One of my kids is Rumi, for K-pop demon hunter,” Alex Elmstead, a FHN alum and father of two, said. “The other kid is Iron Man, so there are definitely memorable costumes.”
Boo at the Zoo remains a staple fall activity for families and individuals alike. Especially with a new attraction in the works, providing excitement for what is to come next year.
“We come every year,” Stephanie Reigh, a zoo member, said. “It’s fun and lighthearted, and we would want to see all the new stuff that’s under construction right now next year.”
