Night of the Living Zoo
Due to the federal government shutdown, the Smithsonian is temporarily closed, and all programs and events are canceled. Special event ticket holders and parking pass holders have been notified and have the option to donate the cost of their order in support of animal conservation.
Night of the Living Zoo is back — and deader than ever. Join us Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25, for the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute’s adults-only Halloween bash, where the spirits are high and the vibes are otherworldly.
This year, prepare for an evening packed with eerie excitement:
- Sip on potions from the open cocktail bar
- Nosh on nightmarishly good nibbles from local food trucks (additional purchase required)
- Be dazzled by mesmerizing circus performers
- Wander through creepily creative Halloween scenes
- Get inked with flash tattoos (additional purchase required)
- Snap spooky selfies in our weird and wonderful photo booths
- Do the monster mash to a killer DJ spinning Halloween hits and haunting tunes.
- Shake your bones to live performances by bands White Ford Bronco (Oct. 24) and Billy “T” Wilde (Oct. 25)
🆕 New this year: Zoostrology!
Experience ethereal “Zoostrology” readings, discover which Zoo animals match your Big Three, and be adorned with temporary star tattoos and glitter constellations.
Your ticket includes after-hours Zoo access, an open bar, live entertainment, and special access to the Reptile Discovery Center and Great Cats exhibits from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. All proceeds support the Zoo’s conservation mission to protect endangered species.
🎃 21+ only. Valid ID required for entry.
Zoo members get discounted admission. Don't miss your chance to become a member today.
Looking for a not-so-scary experience? Get tickets to the family-friendly Boo at the Zoo!
More Information
Arriving on foot? The Zoo’s Connecticut Ave. and Harvard Street entrances will be open until last entry at 10:30 p.m. Please note: The Harvard Street entrance is closest to the event — guests arriving via Connecticut Ave. should expect extra travel time in order to walk to the event entrance near Small Mammal House.
Using a rideshare vehicle? Set your pick up to the Zoo’s vehicle check-in lot near Asia Trail, accessible from the main entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW.
Driving and parking? You must reserve a Night of the Living Zoo Paid Parking Pass online before your visit.
- Daytime parking passes will not be honored for Night of the Living Zoo.
- All cars must enter through the main vehicle entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW.
Entering the Event: To help our staff scan tickets efficiently, guests should plan on entering the Zoo together.
Guests are welcome to wear costumes to Night of the Living Zoo and are encouraged to enter the event's costume contest.
However, for the safety of other guests and the animals, please do not bring balloons, skates, hover boards or scooters. Guests should not wear full-faced masks as part of their costume. Real and costume weapons are not permitted on Zoo grounds.
Guests must be 21 years of age or older with a valid ID to enter the event.
Closure notice: Visitors will not be able to enter the lower portion of the Zoo (from the Reptile Discovery Center to Kids' Farm) starting at 3 p.m. This is to allow our staff to finish preparations for the event. Last entry to the Zoo is at 3 p.m. and the Zoo will be cleared of guests at 4 p.m.
Refunds: Per our terms of sale, tickets to Night of the Living Zoo are nonrefundable, so plan your visit carefully. Exchanges are available up to 48 hours before the event date. Ticket exchanges are subject to availability and not guaranteed.
To contact our Events team, click here.
Please visit our Accessibility page for information on how we provide inclusive experiences for all audiences.