Monroe Families Celebrate Annual Boo at the Zoo Halloween Event

Costumes, Candy, and Train Rides Draw Families to Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo

As reported by KNOE, crowds headed to the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo located in Monroe on Saturday to take part in the yearly Boo at the Zoo Halloween festivities. Youngsters attending the function had the chance to wear costumes, go trick-or-treating, and engage in various attractions spread across the facility.

Attractions featured candy distribution stations, a contest for costumes, recreational games, food trucks, commercial vendors, alongside train and boat excursions.

Monica Boudreaux, who serves as president of the Louisiana Purchase Zoological Society, remarked that the gathering provides kids a safe environment to celebrate Halloween with their families.

“I think it brings joy to the kids. I think it’s something for them to do because I know in the day we live in, it’s not very safe to let your kids go trick or treating. And it gives the kids an opportunity to dress up in their favorite costume and come and get candy,” Boudreaux said.

Acting as the nonprofit affiliate of the zoo, the Louisiana Purchase Zoological Society handles the planning and management of Boo at the Zoo.

Attending the gathering allowed Gwen Sammons and her daughter, Grace Sammons, to revisit a beloved location while observing one of their cherished festive seasons.

“There’s always something new here. So to be able to come on Halloween when we haven’t been in a while, we just get to see what’s new and celebrate and share this special day. Halloween’s one of our favorite holidays, so we figure we share it with one of our favorite places,” Gwen Sammons said.

Grace Sammons said she also enjoys visiting the zoo and seeing its animals.

“Like my mom said, I just like coming here to the zoo, and since it’s been a while, I want to see what’s new and get to see the animals again,” she said.