Zoo Contact:  Kyle Shepherd
kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
(O) 502-238-5331 (C) 502-744-5639  

The animals at the Louisville Zoo get in on the celebration of the season with a special pumpkin enrichment for the popular Animal Pumpkin Smash Saturday, Nov. 2.

The hundreds of pumpkins and gourds that previously decorated the grounds for Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer will be given to the animals for Halloween enrichment. Animal enrichment is an important part of animal husbandry at the Louisville Zoo and promotes the expression of natural behavior.

The full schedule is here (subject to change):

10 a.m.                 Elephants

10:30 a.m.          Gorillas

10:45 a.m.          Meerkats

11:15 a.m.          Bears

12:00 p.m.          Lorikeets

Other animals may be given pumpkin enrichment throughout the day as well.

The Animal Pumpkin Smash is free with Zoo admission.

Zoo Hours

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through March 14, 2025, hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guests exiting by 5 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information.

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About the Louisville Zoo

The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).