Experience the Spooky Safari: Halloween Fun and Animal Encounters in Springfield, MA
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for families and individuals of all fitness levels due to gentle walking on paved paths
Overview
Join the Forest Park Zoo's Spooky Safari on October 25 for a fun-filled day of Halloween activities, animal encounters, and a special Trick-or-Treat trail designed for kids. Discover why this event is a unique highlight of Springfield's fall season.
Spooky Safari
Oct. 25 • 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Join us for the annual Spooky Safari on October 25, where families can enjoy a thrilling day of Halloween fun! Dress in costume to explore a trick-or-treat trail, engage in animal encounters, and participate in crafts and activities. Don’t miss the virtual costume contest and special surprises throughout the event!
Spooky Safari
About
Our annual Spooky Safari event is Saturday, Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Entrance gates close at 1:30.) Dress in costume and enjoy family-friendly Halloween fun complete with a trick-or-treat trail for kids ages 0-12*, on-site activities, crafts, animal encounters and appearances from some special friends! The event will also feature a virtual costume contest and discounts in our gift shop.
*Children under one who wish to collect goodies along the trick-or-treat trail must have a pre-purchased ticket. Children under one who do not want to participate in the stations are free and do not need a ticket to attend the event.
Are you looking forward to providing grain to our goats or an ice cream cone to our camel? Be sure to add on a grain cone to your purchase. Supply is limited and grain cones are restricted to two per family. They will be sold on a first-come, first-purchased basis. Once they are gone, no more will be sold on the day of the event.
All ticket sales are final. This event is rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, the event will be held on Sunday, Oct. 26. Tickets will be honored for the same time slot on Sunday. No refunds will be given in the case of a rain date.
Front gate closes at 1:30 pm! No one will be admitted into The Zoo after 1:30. The event ends at 2.
The City of Springfield charges $3/in-state and $5/out-of-state plate CASH ONLY to park in Forest Park. This fee is managed and collected by the city and is not included in the price of admission.
Library memberships CANNOT be used for Spooky Safari.
Adventure Tips
Bring a Halloween Costume
Dressing up enhances the fun and is perfect for the Trick-or-Treat trail and virtual costume contest.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be walking the trail and visiting various activity stations, so supportive footwear is recommended.
Arrive Early
Arriving close to 10 a.m. helps you beat the crowd and enjoy all activities throughout the day.
Plan for Parking
Parking is not included with admission, so plan ahead to find spots nearby or consider carpooling.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Box Turtle
- Red Fox
History
Forest Park Zoo has been a community wildlife education site since the mid-20th century, playing a crucial role in local conservation efforts.
Conservation
The zoo emphasizes sustainability by educating visitors on native species and habitats, supporting regional wildlife preservation programs.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Springfield
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Costume
Adds to the festive atmosphere and is required for the costume contest.
fall specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating the zoo’s trick-or-treat trail with ease.
fall specific
Light Jacket
Massachusetts can be cool in October, so bring a jacket for warmth.
fall specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while exploring the event stations.
fall specific