Tag Archives: FONZ

Boo at the Zoo Tix on Sale for FONZ Members

When the costume catalogs start to arrive, it’s officially acceptable to start planning for Halloween–even when they come as early as mid-August. Not only have we received new reading for the kids (both Owen and Sasha are captivated by pictures of superheroes, cartoon characters, and princesses), the emails are invading my inbox as well.  And they are working–already I am worried that all the good stuff is going to get snatched up before I’m ready to commit to costumes. But when my kids have a new favorite every week, it’s risky to buy so far in advance!

It seems the National Zoo is on the same schedule as the costume people because as of today,  Boo at the Zoo tickets are on sale for FONZ members.  The cost is $20 for all visitors ages 2 and over.  Tickets for non-members will go on sale September 1 for $30.  You can purchase tickets at the National Zoo gift shops, through Ticketmaster, or by calling the Zoo’s ticket line at 202.633.0151 (a $2/ticket service fee will apply).

If you haven’t been to Boo at the Zoo, I recommend checking it out.  It’s a DC tradition and a blast for kids (the zoo recommends it for ages 2 – 12, and I’d say that’s about right).  Kids can trick-or-treat their way through a wild Halloween party that includes 40 treat stations, animal encounters, and loads of spooky fun.  It’s a great, family-friendly way to celebrate one of the most fun holidays of the year.

Boo at the Zoo will take place on October 22, 23, and 24 this year.  Festivities will run from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

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Filed under DC, Gradeschoolers, Outdoor, Preschoolers, Preteens, Toddlers

The Zoo After Hours

I could probably take my kids to the National Zoo every single day, and they wouldn’t get tired of it. In fact, the more we go, the more I think Owen digs it. He takes pride in knowing exactly where to find the elephants and zebras, what all the signs say (because he’s had them read to him so many times), and which vending machines sell the best treats. Of course, it’s not all about being an expert zoogoer; the kids love viewing the animals, too. And if one of them poops (the animals, not my kids), then Hallelujah! My kids’ day has been made.

Okay, I’m getting sidetracked here. The point of all this is that the zoo rocks. And not just for the everyday, ongoing animal attractions. The special events are awesome, too. And this Friday, May 14, will be no exception when the annual Guppy Gala takes place. It’s both a fun event and a fundraiser to support animal care, conservation science, education and sustainability at the National Zoo.

From 6pm – 8:30pm, there will be tons for kids to enjoy including obstacle courses, rock-climbing walls, a mock construction site, painting, live entertainment, jugglers, and constumed characters. For zoo-related activities, head to the UnitedHealthcare Veterinary Center where zoo vets will perform “check-ups” on stuffed animals (kids can bring in their “sick” plush toys). Also check out the Giant Zootrition tent for a fun lesson in animal nutrition.

Don’t worry about cooking that night—Subway will be making dinner, and Giant will be providing treats.

Admission to Guppy Gala is $15 for FONZ members, $25 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online (with additional service fee) or at the zoo this week. A limited number of tickets will also be available at the door. Children ages 2 and older need tickets to enter.

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Filed under All ages, Annual, Educational, Live Entertainment, Outdoor