Spooky Safari at the Phoenix Zoo: What North Scottsdale Families Need to Know

When is Spooky Safari at the Phoenix Zoo in 2026? Spooky Safari runs October 28 through October 30, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., with trick-or-treating, a costume parade, and family entertainment throughout the park.

Fall in North Scottsdale means cooler evenings, patio season, and a full calendar of family events across the Valley. One of the season’s most anticipated traditions returns this October: Spooky Safari at the Phoenix Zoo. For families in Scottsdale, Cave Creek, and Carefree looking for a Halloween outing that skips the crowded neighborhood streets, this three night event offers a safe, walkable alternative with plenty to see and do.

Whether you are new to the area or a longtime Scottsdale resident, here is what to expect this year.

What Is Spooky Safari?

Spooky Safari is a Phoenix Zoo event featuring trick-or-treating, ghoulish games, and more across three nights this fall. Guests can expect a family friendly Halloween experience set against the backdrop of the zoo’s animal habitats, with themed candy stations positioned throughout the park.

Dates, Hours, and Pricing

• Dates: October 28, 29, and 30, 2026
• Time: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Phoenix Zoo, 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
• Price: $18 per person, with children 2 and under admitted free
• Tickets: Not yet on sale as of this writing. Check the Phoenix Zoo’s event page for release dates, since past years have sold out early

Note that pricing, entertainment, and event details are subject to change without notice, so it is worth confirming details closer to the event.

What to Expect

Candy Stations

Trick-or-treaters can move through the zoo and stop at themed candy stations placed throughout the park, giving families a reason to explore areas of the zoo they might otherwise skip on a daytime visit.

Entertainment

This year’s lineup includes DJ Mars Glow Parties, Dino Crew Entertainment, Dr. T-Rex, and free face painting, along with an hourly costume parade for guests who want to show off their costumes.

Add On Experiences

Beyond the included activities, families can add on a ride on the Lakeside Carousel or a camel ride for an extra fee, with discounted pricing available for zoo members.

One detail worth noting for families with younger trick-or-treaters: the event asks guests to leave toy guns at home, so plan costumes accordingly.

Why This Event Fits North Scottsdale Families

For those living in the 85255, 85262, and 85266 corridors, a trip to the Phoenix Zoo is a manageable drive and a nice change of pace from neighborhood trick-or-treating, especially given the size of many North Scottsdale lots. It also gives newer residents relocating to the area a low pressure way to explore Phoenix attractions outside the immediate Scottsdale bubble.

Events like Spooky Safari are also a good reminder of the lifestyle that comes with living in North Scottsdale. Access to major Valley attractions, a strong calendar of family programming, and an easy 20 to 30 minute drive to central Phoenix are part of what continues to draw buyers to communities like DC Ranch, Grayhawk, Silverleaf, and The Boulders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Spooky Safari included with regular zoo admission? No. Spooky Safari is a separate ticketed event held in the evening, outside of normal zoo hours, and requires its own admission.

Is Spooky Safari good for toddlers? Yes. The event is designed for families with young children, though parents of very young toddlers may want to plan for an early exit given the 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. window.

Does the Phoenix Zoo offer member discounts for Spooky Safari add-ons? Yes. Members receive discounted pricing on the Lakeside Carousel and camel rides during the event.

Plan Your Fall in North Scottsdale

Events like Spooky Safari are one small part of what makes fall such a great season to live in North Scottsdale. If you are exploring a move to the area or thinking about what your home could be worth ahead of the fall market, The Luckys team is happy to help. Call or text Laura Lucky at 480-390-5044 or email All.Lucky@RussLyon.com.