OKC Zoo Adds New Precautions For Annual ‘Haunt The Zoo’

Oklahoma’s longest-running trick or treat event will go on as planned in 2020.

"Nothing says Halloween more than trick or treating," Oklahoma City Zoo Director of Marketing and Public Relations Candice Rennels said.

The Oklahoma City Zoo is changing a few aspects of their “Haunt the Zoo” event, which starts Oct. 10. Organizers hope to make this year’s event just as memorable.  

"We will be limiting the number of trick or treat bags that are sold each day,” Rennels said. “And then, we will be limiting zoo admission.”

The zoo’s Halloween event will run each weekend of October through Nov. 1, which allows families to experience an outdoor Halloween event.

"For ‘Haunt the Zoo’ this year, this is a timed and limited experience," Rennels said.

The zoo asks for people to buy their tickets and trick or treat bags in advance so that they can ensure enough space at the zoo for social distancing.

"All volunteers and all zoo staff will be wearing masks,” Rennels said. “As for trick or treaters, they are encouraged but not required.”

Masks are required for all indoor experiences at the OKC Zoo.

The CDC released their recommendations for Halloween, describing several activities as a higher risk.

According to the CDC, giving candy to a child by hand is at a higher risk category. However, the zoo has a new idea for letting children get their treats.

"We have treat tubes at our stations, so this will be a lot of fun for the trick or treaters,” Rennels said. “When they come up to the treat tube, volunteers will put candy at the top end, and it will come all the way down to the trick or treat bags at the bottom end.”