CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Fall is finally here, so why not embrace the autumn season at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Fall Fest!
Starting Friday, Oct. 8, Lincoln Park Zoo guests are invited to partake in harvest fun, from picking the perfect pumpkin to devouring sweet treats and festive drinks.
In addition to autumn-themed animal enrichment and musical entertainment, the zoo’s fall pop-up bar, Patches’ Pumpkin Bar & Grill, returns to offer festive food, drinks, décor, and spectacular views of the new Pepper Family Wildlife Center, which opens Oct. 14.
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The free admission, family-friendly celebration also features several ticketed experiences, including a Pumpkin Walk at Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo with live professional pumpkin carvers on Saturdays and Sundays, Lionel Train Adventure, and the AT&T Endangered Species Carousel.
“After such a toasty summer, come enjoy the autumn weather at the zoo and partake in some harvest fun,” said Events Manager Ellen Ernst, in a statement. “At Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo, guests can celebrate the changing of the seasons and connect with nature in their urban backyard”.
New this year, participate in the Fall Fest Instagram photo contest. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo during Fall Fest and post a photo at any of the five Fall Fest photo ops for a chance to win tickets to ZooLights presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ.
In true fall fashion, pumpkins will be available for purchase at a pumpkin patch located in front of the Gift Shop. Pumpkins vary in price depending on size.
Fall Fest is free and open to the public Fridays through Sundays from Oct. 8 through Oct. 31 and on Monday, Oct. 11 for Columbus Day. The event’s hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are required for various experiences and are available individually for $3 each or in bulk packages of 10 for $27, or 20 for $51.
Additionally, to keep the spirit of the season going, the zoo is offering various special ticketed happenings:
• Learn more about the zoo’s cemetery roots and locations from throughout its allegedly haunted history during Haunted History Tours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout October.
• Too old for trick or treating, but want to scare up some fun? Head to Adults Night Out: The Great Pumpkin Glow on Oct. 28 to celebrate the spooky season and enjoy some adult fun. Tickets are available for $15+.