When I write, “It’s Scary… But Not Too Scary” you all know what I’m talking about, don’t you?  I think that’s probably one of the best tags lines for an event I’ve heard.  Of course, I’m talking about those two weeks when the Erie Zoo turns into the Eerie Zoo for Zoo Boo. 

Normally, the Erie Zoo is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day of the week but, starting on October 16th and continuing through October 30th, it will reopen every evening from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm for its big end of the season event, Zoo Boo.

Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, you’ll have a great time at Zoo Boo.  I’ve attended for several years now (both with and without kids) and always enjoy myself.  If you have kids, there are all kinds of activities for them located throughout the zoo, including crafty things, face painting (which always seems to be a favorite at any event), and, of course, candy collecting at stations set up all over the grounds.  There’s also a corn maze, a Giant Pumpkin, DJs providing music, and, my personal favorite (aside from all the animals) is the Troll that lives under the bridge. 

The majority of animals are on display during the evening Zoo Boo hours, but there are a few exceptions.  This year, the main exception will be the orangutans, one of the most popular exhibits.  A new baby orangutan was born very recently and will turn just a month old during the Zoo Boo weeks.  Although you can see the orangutan family during the day, they will not be on exhibit during the extended hours of Zoo Boo.

Of course, while the two weeks of Zoo Boo is certainly fun, the Zoo is a great place to visit the rest of the year, too.  The Erie Zoo is one of our great assets and we should all support it.  You can do that by purchasing a membership, sponsoring an animal, making a financial donation, or volunteering.  There are membership packages and sponsorship opportunities for just about every financial comfort level.  And don’t forget, if you purchase a membership to the Erie Zoo, it’s good for free or discounted admissions at over 100 other zoos across the country (including nearby Buffalo, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh), as well as one in Canada and another in Mexico. 

As most Erieites know, several years ago, the Zoo started closing for three months out of the year (December, January, and February) due to budget constraints, so any assistance they can get, I’m sure is greatly appreciated.