Boo at the Zoo Event Hours Changed Due to EEE

BOO at the Zoo returns to the Buttonwood Park Zoo for six dates of spooky fun this month.

Promising plenty of thrills and chills for the whole family, Buttonwood Park Zoo is busy preparing for its annual BOO at the Zoo. A fall tradition for local families, one aspect of the event that will be different this year is that it will be held during the day as the threat of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is still at a critical level in the New Bedford area. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution and concern for the well-being of all Zoo visitors, volunteers, and staff members.

“Making changes to a well-established event like BOO at the Zoo is never an easy decision,” said Sarah Henry, Development and Marketing Officer at the Buttonwood Park Zoological Society. “We want to be true to what our guests have come to expect of this annual event but we are also excited to be able to add activities that are best experienced with daylight. This allows us to create opportunities for some of our Zoo residents to get in on the Halloween fun as well.” Henry added that all proceeds from BOO at the Zoo support the Zoo’s educational and family programs.

BOO at the Zoo will start on Saturday, October 12 and run on each Saturday and Sunday through October 27 during the daylight hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dress the kids in their favorite costume and explore 10 trick-or-treat stations, Halloween-themed animal enrichment, unlimited amusement rides, up-close personal encounters with the zoo’s animal ambassadors and fall-themed crafts and activities for children of all ages. Families are encouraged to bring their own “trick or treat” bags.

Having a two-year-old nephew myself, I can see why Buttonwood Park Zoo decided to revise the hours for the event. EEE is not to be taken lightly and I'm glad that they are taking this seriously. Certainly not worth the risk.

Click HERE for admission info to BOO at the Zoo