Volunteer: Boo at the Zoo

Boo at the Zoo logo next to a pygmy slow loris wearing an illustrated owl mask.
Open

Description

Boo at the Zoo is back — and spookier than ever!

This beloved family-friendly Halloween event features 30 treat stations throughout the Zoo, plus playful vignettes of frolicking skeletons and fantastic creatures along the main pathway, Olmsted Walk. Guests can also explore the Elephant Community Center, Small Mammal House, and Reptile Discovery Center, where animals will enjoy spooky enrichment and festive treats.

Boo at the Zoo helps fund essential operations at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, supporting our mission to care for animals and protect endangered species. The success of this children's trick-or-treating celebration depends on the generous support of our volunteers. We couldn’t do it without you!

Sign up to volunteer for one, two, or all three nights and help bring the magic to life!

Dates

October 17, 18, and 19, 2025

Time

Volunteer check-in opens at 4 p.m. Volunteer shifts run from 4 p.m. through 9 p.m.

Registration

Please complete the registration page at the links below for each night you would like to volunteer to support Boo at the Zoo. For example, if you are available both Friday and Saturday, please complete the forms for both Friday and Saturday at the links below. 

Note: If you are already an active Smithsonian volunteer, please log into your VSys profile and register under “Find Opportunities.”

Volunteer Roles

Volunteers will be responsible for:

  • Passing out treats at our trick-or-treat stations.
  • Greeting visitors and assist with wayfinding.
  • Setting up/resetting craft activity materials under the direction of a staff member.

Additional Information

We encourage all volunteers to utilize Metro to maximize available parking for paying event guests, however limited parking will be available for volunteers. Additional directions will be provided with confirmation.

A meal will be provided. A vegetarian option will be available, but we are unable to accommodate other dietary restrictions. Please plan accordingly. 

Volunteers will receive an event t-shirt and must wear it throughout the event. Fun hats, headbands, and accessories are encouraged. Non-scary costumes and masks that do not fully cover the face are allowed, but the event t-shirt must be worn over any costume. Full face coverings are not permitted. Real and costume weapons are not permitted on Zoo grounds.

Age Range

18+

Commitment

Minimum of one evening.

Training

Staff will be on hand to provide on-the-job training.

Special qualifications

Event Volunteers may be asked to lift, move, or position heavy objects to complete some tasks. Volunteers should be comfortable with a hilly and possibly lengthy walk to their assigned station. Volunteers must be comfortable being outside for the duration of the event. The event is rain or shine.