Hoots & Howls

Hoots & Howls is the Birmingham Zoo’s daytime Halloween event, built for kids who would rather trick-or-treat in the sunshine. Ten candy stations line the route, and the weekends add magic shows, animal presentations, a costume parade and contest, a Dino Dance party, DJs and lawn games. The candy is palm-oil free, tied to the zoo’s conservation message.

It runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on October 10 and 11, 17 and 18, 24 and 25, and Halloween day. Zoo admission is separate. A $15 Candy Trail wristband adds unlimited train rides and the Adventure Tower, or pay $5.50 for the candy trail alone. Costumes are encouraged, and morning visits tend to be calmer.