Trick or Treating Begins with Boo at the Zoo

From pink flamingos to Frankenstein, it’s all part of Boo at the Zoo.

Halloween isn’t until next Thursday, but youngsters got an early start on the first night of Santa Barbara Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo Friday.

Volunteers and staff members transformed the zoo, overlooking the ocean, into a Halloween spooktacular.

Children can hop on the Boo-Choo-Choo train or get around on foot. They can also visit T-Rex and pose with creepy crawlers. Mother Goose is on hand to tell spooky stories, and every path looks like a costume parade.

For older children there is a scare zone with zombies.

Boo at the Zoo is offered a one of the safest Halloween events in the tri-counties. It’s also a zoo fundraiser.

Booth’s manned by non-profits and other businesses give out candy.

To counteract tooth decay, the Tooth Fairy and members of the Dental Hygienists Association are on hand to give out toothbrushes and other tricks or treats.

Boo at the Zoo opens at 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday nights. Tickets are available at the zoo or at 805-962-5339. Parking for non-members is $5.

Slideshow: Boo at the Zoo