'BooFest' Brings Halloween Fun to Pine Grove Zoo October 24th

If you're looking for something fun to do with your kids or grandkids this Halloween season, I've got a great idea for you.

My friend Marnita from Pine Grove Zoo in Little Falls stopped by last week and wanted me to remind everyone about BooFest, happening Saturday, October 24th. It's a chance to spend quality time with the little ones while enjoying animals, games, candy, and plenty of family fun.

THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF FUN AND HALLOWEEN

Let's face it, what kid doesn't love dressing up in a costume, collecting treats, and seeing animals? Put all of that together, and you've got the makings of a pretty great afternoon!

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ONE SPECIAL HALLOWEEN EXPERIENCE

BooFest at the Pine Grove Zoo in Little Falls gives you everything we just mentioned. Sure, you can go to a million trick-or-treat events, but this one is special.

Pine Grove Zoo is celebrating Halloween with an afternoon of games, activities, and treats from local businesses. Families can explore the zoo, show off their costumes, and enjoy a special seasonal outing together.

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HIGHLIGHTS OF BOO AT THE PINE GROVE ZOO

One of the highlights will be watching the animals enjoy their own Halloween celebration. The zoo will provide Halloween and pumpkin-themed enrichment treats to their zoo animals, giving visitors a chance to see the animals enjoying Halloween too. Who doesn't want to see a giant tiger enjoying a big ol' pumpkin!

GO AT YOUR OWN PACE AND MAKE SOME MEMORIES

I love events like this because they give families a reason to slow down and make memories together. Sometimes the best moments happen during a simple afternoon outing, whether it's watching a child's face light up at the sight of an animal or seeing a grandchild proudly show off a favorite costume. I can still remember going to the zoo as a child, and I have nothing but fond memories of being with my family and seeing beautiful, amazing animals.

SENSORY-FRIENDLY HOUR FOR SPECIAL GUESTS 1-2 PM

One especially thoughtful feature of BooFest is a dedicated sensory-friendly hour from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

During this time, the zoo will minimize loud noises, flashing lights, and other sensory stimuli to create a more comfortable environment for guests of all ages who benefit from a quieter experience.

Families can still wear costumes, play games, and collect treats from local businesses.

It's wonderful to see local attractions making an effort to create welcoming experiences for more people. Halloween festivities can sometimes feel overwhelming for children and adults with sensory sensitivities, so this quieter hour gives families another way to enjoy the celebration.

If that sounds like a better fit for your family, plan to arrive during the sensory-friendly session.

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GENERAL ADMISSION 2-5 PM

General Admission Runs From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For families looking for the traditional BooFest experience, general admission runs from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, participate in activities, and collect candy and treats. And don't forget to watch for those animal enrichment activities. Seeing the zoo's residents interact with their seasonal treats adds something special to the visit.

Whether you're bringing toddlers, school-age kids, or grandkids who are excited to show off their costumes, BooFest offers a fun way to spend a fall afternoon together.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BOO FEST AT PINE GROVE ZOO

Event: BooFest at Pine Grove Zoo
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Sensory-friendly hour: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
General admission: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tickets: $10 per person
Location: Pine Grove Zoo in Little Falls, Minnesota

PINE GROVE ZOO CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU

If you're still looking for a family activity this month, put BooFest on your calendar. It's a chance to get outside, enjoy the animals, and spend some time with the people you love.

Thanks again to my animal-loving friend Marnita for stopping by and making sure we knew about this great event.

The candy might not last long once you get home, but the memories of an afternoon together could last much longer.