New signature event “ZOOtoberFest” at San Francisco Zoo & Gardens

It’s officially fall, and San Francisco Zoo & Gardens is celebrating with a new signature event, “ZOOtoberFest”, with entertainment for all ages! Every weekend in October, kids can explore San Francisco’s largest hay maze, play outdoor games and jump in the bounce house at the new “Harvest Hallow” attraction.

“Harvest Hallow” is located behind the lion fountain and is open to all guests with paid admission to the Zoo. The 5,000-square-foot hay maze uses 600 bales of straw and features play areas within the design. Cornstalk, pumpkins, festive fall décor and seating make the perfect spot for a family photo opp!

Meanwhile, the young-at-heart can spend the afternoon at the “Zoo Brew Haus”, with German beers, food and live music. The Depot Grill has transformed into the “Zoo Brew Haus” to serve a great selection of specialty beers served in a custom keepsake “ZOOtoberFest” mug. There’s a full menu of German-inspired dishes, like beer-braised bratwurst with Guinness mustard and sauerkraut. Three live musical performances will entertain patrons from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm during weekends with the upbeat sounds of traditional polka.

This weekend, “Harvest Hallow” will be open through the Columbus Day holiday (Monday). The “Zoo Brew Haus” is open Saturday and Sunday only. Additionally, the U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet Band, in town for Fleet Week, is performing live at San Francisco Zoo on Saturday, October 8 at 3:00 pm. The 15-piece ensemble band is stopping by the Playfield for a 20-minute set of uplifting music.

The final weekend of “ZOOtoberFest” includes one of SF Zoo’s most popular events, Boo at the Zoo! Children are encouraged to dress in costume to trick-or-treat at stations throughout the Zoo, participate in a costume parade and contest, watch animals enjoy tasty treats and pumpkin enrichment, and brave the haunted Nature Trail. All activities are complimentary with paid admission to San Francisco Zoo & Gardens.

Event Details

Who: All visitors to San Francisco Zoo & Gardens
What: New signature event “ZOOtoberFest”
Where: San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, Sloat Blvd. at The Great Highway, San Francisco, CA 94132
When: Every Weekend in October from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Visuals: Kids playing in the hay maze, specialty food and drink, live music performances
Best time to cover: Saturdays or Sundays at from 11:00-1:00

Contact: Rachel Eslick rachele@sfzoo.org 559-287-3990

San Francisco Zoo & Gardens

Established in 1929, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens connects people to wildlife, inspires caring for nature and advances conservation action. An urban oasis, the Zoo & Gardens are home to more than 2,000 exotic, endangered and rescued animals representing more than 250 species as well as seven distinct gardens full of native and unusual plants. Located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean where the Great Highway meets Sloat Boulevard, the Zoo is open 365 days a year from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (summer hours) and is accessible by San Francisco MUNI "L" Taraval Line.