Jacksonville, FL — October is here, and that means things are getting a little spooky at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.
The Zoo says a pumpkin patch, kid-friendly music and special food menus are just a few of the fun features added for the 31st-annual Spooktacular.
During the day, the Zoo will operate like normal, but in the evening it will be transformed with characters in costume and trick-or-treating.
There will also be three scare zones that aren't recommended for kids under 10.
The fun starts each night at 6:30 and runs until 10. Gates close at 9 p.m., so don't plan to arrive in the last hour of operation. The Spooktacular will take place on the weekends, running from Oct. 12-14; Oct. 18-21 and Oct. 26 through Halloween. Kids can look forward to a special treat on Halloween day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with what the Zoo is calling a "Mini Monster Mash." That means games and music for some of the younger guests.
An extra fee of $8 for members and $10 for non-members will be charged on top of normal admission prices.
The Zoo says a Sweet Pete's Candy Trail will be a major highlight, as well as the Wizard of Oz in the Range of the Jaguar. To make every effort for conservation, the Zoo has ensured all candy at this year's event will be palm-oil friendly.