Boo at the Zoo 2026
Halloween is getting a little wild this October as Boo at the Zoo returns to New Orleans' Audubon Zoo. The annual family-friendly Halloween tradition will take place from October 16 through October 18, combining costumes and trick-or-treating with animals and activities throughout the zoo.
Boo at the Zoo has been a New Orleans Halloween tradition for years, giving families a safe way to celebrate the holiday while exploring the zoo. Audubon has hosted the annual event for at least a decade, and in 2020, the celebration shifted from its traditional nighttime format to a daytime zoo experience.
This year's event will feature trick-or-treat stations throughout the zoo for children ages 12 and under, a haunted house, animal presentations, and other Halloween activities. Costumes are encouraged for visitors looking to join in on the celebration.
Boo at the Zoo also connects Halloween with Audubon's wildlife conservation efforts. Candy distributed at the event that contains palm oil will only use sustainably sourced palm oil. Unsustainable forest clearing for palm oil can threaten wildlife habitats, including those of orangutans. The initiative gives families a chance to learn how everyday choices can play a role in protecting wildlife.
Proceeds from Boo at the Zoo support Manning Family Children's and Audubon Zoo. The partnership supports the hospital's work with local children and families while also helping Audubon protect wildlife and encourage conservation.
A New Way to Boo
For the first time, Audubon is offering Li'l Boo Friday on October 16. The new option is designed with younger children in mind and gives families the chance to enjoy activities without the larger weekend crowds.
Li'l Boo Friday will run from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with trick-or-treating and activities for younger children taking place until 5 p.m. The day will finish with an outdoor movie around twilight. Last entry to the zoo is at 4 p.m.
The classic Boo at the Zoo experience will take place Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both days will feature trick-or-treating, a haunted house, zoo animals, costumes, and Halloween activities. Last entry is also at 4 p.m.
Advance tickets for Li'l Boo Friday are $30 for general admission and $11 for Audubon members through October 4. Starting October 5, tickets increase to $32 and $12, respectively. For Saturday and Sunday, advance admission is $36 for the general public and $13 for members. Regular pricing increases to $38 and $14 beginning October 5.
Discounted SNAP admission is available for $8 per person, per event day, and must be purchased on-site with proof of eligibility.
Boo at the Zoo will take place at Audubon Zoo, located at 6500 Magazine St., from October 16 through October 18. Tickets are required for both members and non-members.
