Halloween has gone wild in San Diego — in the best possible way. The San Diego Zoo’s beloved HalGLOWeen is back for 2026, transforming the Zoo into a glittering, glowing celebration every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout October, starting October 3.
This is Halloween without the frights: instead of screams, you’ll hear laughter floating through the night air as families explore the Zoo after dark. The Skeleton Band kicks things off with groovy Halloween hits on Front Street, while the whimsical Boo Crew stilt-walkers hunt for silly photo opportunities.
After dark, the Python Path near the Reptile House glows with otherworldly effects, and high above Desert Dunes, the Spider’s W.E.B. performers show off arachnid-inspired acrobatics. There’s a glow-in-the-dark dance party with Boolahoops at Centennial Plaza, Dr. Zoolittle’s Tricks & Treats, the kooky Spooky Revue, meet-and-greets with Dr. Harry & Friends in their Halloween finest, and a Día de los Muertos Mariachi in Elephant Odyssey.
Come hungry: seasonal treats range from the Wicked Nashville Wrap and Franken Mini Cookies to the Booey Gooey Brownie Sundae, plus festive sips like the Blood Orange Margarita. Bonus: October is Kids Free month at the Zoo, so come early and stay late. See you there — spook you soon!
Photo: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
