TOLEDO, Ohio, Sept. 24, 2024 – Get ready for the Toledo Zoo’s most anticipated fall event, as Harvest Fest makes its return this October! Running the entire month, the Zoo will transform into a magical autumn wonderland, brimming with massive pumpkin displays, mouthwatering seasonal foods, and a jam-packed schedule of fall-inspired activities that cater to visitors of all ages.
Throughout the month of October, guests can indulge in an array of festivities, from live musical performances to mesmerizing animal demonstrations, hands-on pumpkin carving, and exclusive family and adult-only nights. Educational experiences such as horticulture tours and fall-themed workshops will also enhance the seasonal fun, making every visit to Harvest Fest a unique adventure.
Here’s what you need to know about Harvest Fest 2024:
Dates and Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Zoo closes at 5 p.m.)
- Thursday & Friday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Zoo closes at 9 p.m.)
FEATURED HARVEST FEST EVENTS:
September 27 – Sip Sip Hooray! Harvest Wine Fest
(Separate fee, reservations required)
Cheers to this exclusive wine tasting event! Adults 21+ can enjoy live entertainment while sampling a variety of wines across Zoo grounds and view our beautiful Harvest Fest displays.
October 3 – U at the Zoo College Night
(Separate fee, reservations required)
College students, this one’s for you! Explore the Zoo after-hours with your peers, enjoy music, special discounts, giveaways, and meet some of our animal ambassadors. Don’t forget your college ID for entry!
October 4 — Buckeye Broadband ZOOtoberfest
(Beer tasting, separate fee, reservations required)
Raise your glass to fall fun at ZOOtoberfest! Sample craft beers from over a dozen local and regional breweries, enjoy live music, and taste seasonal sours, stouts, and ciders. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or simply want to enjoy a refreshing brew in a festive setting, ZOOtoberfest is an event you won’t want to miss!
October 17 & 18 — Little Boo presented by Meijer
(Separate fee, reservations required)
Calling all little ghosts and goblins! Little Boo is designed for toddlers and pre-schoolers, offering safe trick-or-treating throughout the Zoo, animal shows, bounce houses and strolling magic. Costumes encouraged for this pint-sized Halloween celebration!
October 19 & 20 — Pumpkin Path presented by Ohio Council of Community Schools
(Separate fee, reservations required)
Children of all ages are invited to trick-or-treat through the Zoo’s enchanting Pumpkin Path! This 40 year tradition features incredible pumpkin displays, character appearances, and live musical entertainment. Pumpkin Path is all-inclusive, with a designated sensory area, and offering non-food treats at every candy station.
October 24 – Fall Fur All Family Night
(Included with Zoo admission)
Join us for a magical evening of fall fun from 4-8 p.m. as the Zoo stays open late. Family-friendly activities, character meet & greets, seasonal treats, and our famous giant pumpkin displays will create unforgettable memories. Come see the Zoo in a whole new light under the autumn skies!
October 25 — F & M Bank Roar & Pour
(Adults-only event, separate fee, reservations required)
Sip and stroll through the Zoo’s gardens during this exclusive evening event for adults. Sample fine bourbons and whiskeys paired with gourmet bites, enjoy live music, and visit the outdoor cigar lounge for a perfectly paired fall experience. Must be 21+ to attend.
October 28 — Pumpkin Stomp & Chomp
Close out Harvest Fest with the highly-anticipated Pumpkin Stomp & Chomp! Watch as your favorite Zoo animals get into the autumn spirit, smashing and munching on pumpkins and other Halloween enrichement. It’s the perfect end to the month-long celebration!
Ongoing Harvest Fest Activities:
In addition to the featured events, every visit to Harvest Fest is filled with seasonal surprises, all included with Zoo admission:
- Pumpkin carving demonstrations on Saturdays & Sundays
- Animal demonstrations on Saturdays & Sundays
- Pumpkin carving classes on select Sundays (Pre-registration required)
- Character meet-and-greets on Saturdays & select Sundays
- Live musical performances on Saturdays & select Sundays
Harvest Fest will have an extra layer of excitement with all our adorable animal additions. The latest arrivals include Murphy, our Snow leopard, Akyli our Orangutan, and of course Kirkja, our African elephant calf, who continues to warm hearts daily!
Fall into fun this October at the Toledo Zoo! For additional information, event reservations, or tickets, visit
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
