Racine & Me: Jack O’ Lantern Nights and more at Racine Zoo 2026!
RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) — Get ready for some spooky fun at the Racine Zoo! Beth Heidorn and Abby Flores joined us in studio to promote Jack O’ Lantern Nights and more.
- Oct. 1-31, 2026
- Thursdays-Sundays
- 6-10 p.m., with last admission at 9:30 p.m.
- $10 per person ages 3 and older. Children 2 and younger are free. Admission is only available at the door.
In the crisp fall air, stroll through the zoo along a dedicated paved pathway and become immersed in dazzling lights and charming decorations. Follow the path and be fully immersed in Halloween with each step you take.
Since its debut in 2022, the event has earned recognition as a nominee in the Innovation Award category for the 2023 Wisconsin Governor’s Tourism Awards.
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
6-9 p.m.
Join the Racine Zoo in celebrating Wisconsin’s classic cocktail. Sample old-fashioned cocktails from local competitors along Lake Michigan. Vote for your favorite, and at the end of the night, a winner will be crowned.
Food is included. Additional drinks will be available for purchase. Attendees must be 21 or older.
Old Fashioned competitors are still needed.
- Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026
- 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Calling all little ghosts and goblins! Enjoy safe, outdoor trick-or-treating all day with the animals at the zoo.
On this Halloween-themed, fun-filled day, guests can enjoy trick-or-treat “knock-knock” doors, spooky cookie decorating, Halloween crafts, pumpkin decorating, creepy-crawly animal ambassadors and more haunted surprises.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
Boo at the Zoo is included with regular zoo admission. Zoo members and children 2 and younger are free. Admission is $11 for adults, $10 for seniors 62 and older, $9 for children 15 and younger and $5 for military members with ID.
Boo at the Zoo — Trunk-or-Treat Business Booth Registration
Businesses and organizations will provide a craft, candy, food or some other tangible gift for 3,000 children visiting their designated space.
Participants are welcome to set up their display in a vehicle’s trunk or bring their own table or tent. Attendants must be at least 16 years old.
Friday, Oct. 30, 2026
6-9 p.m.
Happy Hallowine! Prepare your taste buds for a Halloween-themed night of wine tasting from your own souvenir sampling glass. Dive into hors d’oeuvres and visit with an animal ambassador.
You may want to bring a friend or two — who knows what spooky creatures are lurking about?
Proceeds benefit the animals and programs of the Racine Zoo.
Applications for teens and adults open Oct. 1.
Calling All Teens!
The Racine Zoo is proud to provide a volunteer program designed for young adults ages 13-18. This is perfect for those considering a future career with animals, zoos or education, or for those just looking for a fun volunteer opportunity.
Volunteens gain valuable experience and learn skills to help them in their future careers.
Those who wish to participate in the Volunteen program must submit an application along with a letter of recommendation from a teacher or group leader and a personal paragraph about why they want to be part of the program.
Volunteers
The Volunteer Program is for adults ages 18 and older. This is perfect for those considering a future career with animals, zoos or education, or for those just looking for a fun volunteer opportunity in their spare time.
Volunteering at the Racine Zoo is a fun, rewarding experience for volunteers of all ages, from young adults to retirees.
Where else can you surround yourself with some of the world’s most spectacular creatures while working and interacting with individuals dedicated to the mission and values of the Racine Zoo?
Those who take part in the Racine Zoo’s volunteer program can gain valuable work experience that can help them in their future endeavors and careers.
The zoo relies on the assistance, dedication and enthusiasm of those who share its vision of continuing to make the Racine Zoo a sanctuary for positive interaction between people and the natural world.
All positions require volunteers to communicate effectively and pleasantly with the public, as well as represent the zoo in a positive manner.