The
"World's
Largest
Halloween Party!"
October 5-7, 11-14, 18-21 & 25-28
Enter from 5 until 8:30 p.m.
Halloween Party Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General FAQ
Can you see the animals during the Halloween Party?
For their health and safety, most of the animals are off exhibit or have access to their sleeping areas so they can choose to maintain their regular nighttime fall schedules, especially after dark. The HerpAquarium is open during the event.
Is the Halloween Party held on Halloween night?
No, the last night of the party is October 28. We are closed on Halloween night.
Do regular Zoo hours change?
Yes. On Party nights, the Zoo gates close early at 3 p.m. (instead of 4 p.m.) Guests have until 4 p.m. (instead of 5 p.m.) to exit. Guests must exit at 4 p.m. to allow the Event Team time to prepare for the event. The gates reopen at 5 p.m. for the Party.
Is smoking permitted?
No. For the safety of children in costumes, smoking is prohibited anywhere on Zoo grounds during this event.
Do kids have to wear costumes?
Kids are encouraged to wear costumes but they are certainly not required.
Can adults wear costumes?
Adults may also wear costumes but we ask that they be family-friendly (not scary). And since this event caters to small children, adults may NOT wear masks that cover the face. The Zoo reserves the right to ask adults to remove masks.
Are there any discount tickets available anywhere?
Yes, advance discount tickets ($6.50) are available at participating area Meijer stores (9/28). A list of participating stores can be found by clicking here. Groups of 15 or more and eConsignment partners qualify for discounted tickets and can purchase tickets online or by calling Group Sales. Click here for details.
What are the Directions to the Zoo?
The Louisville Zoo is easy to find and just 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, KY, easily accessible from I-64 and I-65. Take I-264 (Watterson Expressway) to Poplar Level Road exit #14 and travel north. Follow the black and white zoo signs to 1100 Trevilian Way. Yahoo! Maps. Bus Service via TARC.
What other rides and attractions will be available and when can we ride them?
The Carousel will be running during the Party ($2 per person). The 4-D Theater Dora & Diego's 4-D Adventure ($4 per person). Journey to see the Headless Horseman (price $2). Check out the new Halloween Ride/Attraction Package (includes a carousel ride and a ticket to the 4-D Theater) for savings and convenience. Click here for more details.
Is the Halloween Party cancelled if it rains?
No, the party goes on rain or shine.
What are the busiest nights/when is the best time to come to the Party?
Generally speaking the busiest nights are Fridays and Saturdays especially with nice weather. The least busy nights are Thursdays and Sundays. The busiest weekend is October 11-14. If you choose to attend on a busy night, please arrive earlier than usual and be prepared for longer lines.
What other Zoo rules and policies should I be aware of?
Click here for information on Zoo policies regarding pets, balloons, skateboards, alcohol, behavior inside the Zoo and more.
Where do we park?Click here for details on parking at the Zoo or off site and road closings.
Trick-or-Treating Questions
Can adults trick-or-treat?
Trick-or-treating is for kids 11 and under, so adults cannot trick-or-treat.
How many times can we go through the treat route per paid admission?
You may go through the trick-or-treat route one time at your leisure.
Should children bring their own trick-or-treat bags?
Yes, please help us be green and bring your own bags. If you forget a bag, you can purchase a cloth bag at the Zoo Gift Shop kiosk on the main plaza for $2.
Do any of the treats you give out contain peanuts?
Yes. While we make a conscious effort to include many treats that do not contain peanuts, some of those treats are made in facilities that process peanuts. We always suggest that parents examine treats closely before children eat them if there are any special concerns.
Louisville Zoo Members - Halloween Party Questions
Do Louisville Zoo Members get into the Party free?
Louisville Zoo Members (and those covered under their membership) may enter free on these select nights (Oct. 5-7, 11-14) and must purchase half price tickets ($4) for other nights. Purchase at the Zoo ticket windows or online with a valid member card.
Do reciprocal zoo members get free or 1/2 priced admission to the Party?
Reciprocal benefits only cover regular Zoo hours. The Halloween Party is a special event, therefore free and discounted reciprocal benefits do not apply. (Exception - 1/2 price admission for Cincinnati Zoo members ONLY during party.)
Can Zoo Members bring a guest?
Where do members buy guest tickets and how much are they?
For guests not covered under the membership, tickets are sold at the Zoo Ticket windows for $8 the night of the event, or you can purchase advance discount tickets ($6.50) at participating area Meijer stores. Advance tickets can also be purchased at the Ticket Windows also.
Is there a separate Zoo Member entrance?
All visitors enter through the main gate for Oct. 18-21 and 25-28, 2012. If you purchased discount Member tickets online, you may be asked to provide proof of Louisville Zoo membership.
How do Zoo Members buy the Halloween
Ride/Attraction Package?
Anyone with pre-paid admission can purchase the $5 Halloween
Ride/Attraction Package (one carousel and one 4-D Theater ticket) at the
Stroller Rental window on the main plaza before entering the
trick-or-treat route. The package is not available after your start the
route. You can also purchase the Headless Horseman Tour tickets at
the same time.
Quick Links
- Tickets & Parking
- Themed Attractions, Rides & Adventures
- Meijer Store Locations
- Thanks to our Sponsors
- Directions





