What animals can I expect to see at Howl-O-Ween?

You’ll meet exotic animals such as skunks, alligators, tigers, cougars, foxes, and more during meet & greets and Extreme Feeds.

Are costumes required?

Costumes are encouraged but must be family-friendly and safe for the animals—no masks, loud or scary elements allowed.

Is the event suitable for young children?

Yes, though children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and some feeds may not be suitable for very young kids.

Can I feed the animals?

Animal feedings are available as add-ons; the Extreme Feeds allow up-close feeding of select exotic animals under supervision.

Is there food available on-site?

Food and drinks from vendors are available for purchase, but not included in ticket price.

Are service animals allowed?

No, service animals are not permitted on-site due to the presence of exotic animals and sanctuary safety policies.

Howl-O-Ween at Forever Wild Exotic Animal Sanctuary: A Family-Friendly Halloween Adventure in Tennessee

Located in the heart of Tennessee, Howl-O-Ween at Forever Wild Exotic Animal Sanctuary offers a rare and captivating blend of wildlife interaction and festive Halloween fun that outdoor enthusiasts and families will find irresistible. Held outdoors within the sanctuary’s expansive grounds, this event transforms a typical animal sanctuary visit into an immersive celebration filled with activities designed to entertain and educate people of all ages.

The Forever Wild Exotic Animal Sanctuary is a critical part of the region’s conservation landscape, providing refuge to a diverse array of exotic species including skunks, alligators, tigers, cougars, and several other rare animals. The sanctuary’s unique setting in Tennessee’s rolling countryside gives visitors a chance to witness these creatures up close in conditions more natural than a traditional zoo, while supporting efforts to protect and rehabilitate animals in need.

During the Howl-O-Ween event, guests enjoy vibrant seasonal activities like pumpkin carving and slime-making, combined with music and local food vendors that bring a community spirit to the occasion. This festive atmosphere encourages visitors, especially families, to don costumes (family-friendly and safe for the animals) and embrace the spooky season alongside the sanctuary’s resident wildlife.

Animal meet and greets are a standout feature, where guests can interact safely with a variety of animals including skunks and alligators, while the popular Extreme Feeds provide a rare chance to feed exotic animals such as tigers, cougars, foxes, and more, under expert supervision. These feeds give attendees a unique, hands-on experience that deepens appreciation for wildlife and conservation efforts.

The sanctuary emphasizes safety and animal welfare throughout the event, with clear guidelines about appropriate costumes and behavior to ensure a stress-free environment for the animals. Access to the event runs from 10 AM to 4 PM, and the terrain is naturally rugged, so comfortable closed-toe shoes and sun protection are advised.

For visitors staying nearby, the closest city is Nashville, Tennessee, offering convenient lodging and transportation options. Howl-O-Ween at Forever Wild is not just a festive outing; it’s a meaningful opportunity to engage with exotic wildlife, celebrate local culture, and support a sanctuary dedicated to animal care and conservation.

This event stands out as a rare combination of education, entertainment, and outdoor adventure suitable for families and wildlife lovers alike—perfect for anyone looking to add a wild twist to their Halloween festivities while experiencing Tennessee’s natural heritage in a fresh way.

About Forever Wild Exotic Animal Sanctuary

Forever Wild Exotic Animal Sanctuary is an animal sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and caring for exotic species and offering public experiences that support education and conservation. The sanctuary cares for over 150 rescued exotic animals and provides a range of visitor experiences, including general admission self-guided visits, 90-minute VIP guided group tours led by expert keepers, and private VIP tours with behind-the-scenes access.

Forever Wild also hosts seasonal and annual events such as Howl-o-Ween, which features music, food, family activities, pumpkin carving, slime-making, and animal meet-and-greets. For groups and celebrations the sanctuary offers multiple event packages, including full facility private rentals that close the venue to the public for exclusive gatherings.

Educational outreach is a core offering: on-site School Tours provide safe, guided learning opportunities for student groups, while School Shows bring five ambassador animals and staff to classrooms within a 20-mile radius. All experiences emphasize animal welfare and visitor safety, with keeper-led interpretation that shares rescue stories, daily care routines, and conservation messaging.

Booking options accommodate families, educators, and private groups seeking tailored encounters, unique event venues, or learning-focused trips. Staffed by experienced keepers and handlers, Forever Wild balances public access with responsible care to create meaningful wildlife connections that inform and inspire visitors. Visitors can reserve guided tours, private VIP experiences, school programs, and event packages through the sanctuary’s booking process, selecting options that match group size, learning goals, and accessibility needs while supporting ongoing rescue and care for the animals. Advance reservations are recommended year-round for groups.