The air is getting brisk, and the Racine Zoo is about to be lit with festive glow as Jack-O'-Lantern Nights beckons families and autumn enthusiasts starting September 26 through November 3, according to an interview with Beth Heidorn, the Executive Director of the Zoo. Operating from Thursdays to Sundays between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., visitors are invited to wander through the zoo amid more than 1,000 carved pumpkins, animated light displays and seasonal treats. A unique feature this year includes pumpkin sculptures resembling wildlife, with creations hoping to mirror the likes of a giraffe, rhino, or even an emperor tamarin, as reported by CBS 58.
Meanwhile, Racine Zoo isn't just about glowing gourds. Special events will sprinkle the calendar like the suds at OktoBEARfest, where Heidorn says attendees can indulge in a "German-themed night of beer tasting," as CBS 58 reported. The event, set for September 27, promises good food, live animal encounters, and souvenir sampling glasses to enhance the experience. For those with a penchant for mixology, there's the Old Fashioned Cocktail Night on October 5, detailing a chance to sample local spins on Wisconsin’s classic cocktail as live music plays near the shores of Lake Michigan.
The Racine Zoo also adds a touch of viniculture to the mix with Hallowine on October 25, inviting guests for a Halloween-themed evening of wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres. Beth Heidorn mentioned in her interview with CBS 58, attendees may rub shoulders with "spooky creatures," albeit of the festive variety, with proceeds earmarked for the zoo's animal care and educational programs.
Behind the scenes, Racine Zoo is rallying for community support to help with the set-up of this artisan pumpkin fest. They're on the hunt for volunteers to assist on September 18, according to a post on their Facebook page. Those interested can pluck more details via email from the zoo's enthusiastic team.
Racine Zoo honors its dedicated volunteers through established programs promoted alongside these events. These initiatives offer teens and adults a chance to engage closely with the zoo's mission. Those interested in pursuing zoo-keeping aspirations or looking for meaningful volunteer opportunities can apply to the zoo's adult and volunteen programs until October 1.
