This is a paid piece from the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium.

Simplified: From beer sampling near the bears to doing crafts near the horseshoe crabs, the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium has a wide range of fall events coming up in the next month. Here's a closer look at what's in store for all ages and interests.

Why it matters

  • For the first time this fall, the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium is hosting a 21+ version of the annual ZooBoo Halloween event: Adult Boo. But don't fret if you've got younger kids because there's also four days of family-friendly ZooBoo activities.
  • There's also Halloween fun for all ages during the Spooky Seas event at the Butterfly House and Aquarium, which will include a treasure hunt activity, pirate-themed crafts and a visit from the Little Mermaid.
  • Additionally, if spooky isn't your vibe, there's also an upcoming conservation-focused event on Sept. 26 celebrating Black-footed Ferret Day. These highly endangered animals were once thought to be extinct, and zoo staff are working to help protect those that remain in the wild in South Dakota.
"They're one of the most endangered species in North America," said Denise DePaolo, director of PR and marketing, about the black-footed ferrets. "It's really cool that we're able to be a part of their conservation."

Tell me more about upcoming events

Here's a run-down of each September and October event:

Black-footed Ferret Day

Where: Great Plains Zoo

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26

Admission: Included in all membership tiers

Activities to watch for: At 11 a.m. there's a field work talk where zoo staff will share about the work they're doing to preserve the species in South Dakota through routine wellness exams, census, and disease prevention. Throughout the event, the zoo education team will be around to answer questions and share knowledge about the black-footed ferrets.

Oktoberfest

Where: Great Plains Zoo

When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26

Admission: $35, or you can get a Premier Package for $45 which includes 10 beer samples and early admission at 5:30 p.m.

Activities to watch for: There will be live music from the Brass Holes – bring a blanket and/or lawn chairs – as well as Oktoberfest-themed food available for purchase, games, and a chance to see Raindancer, the zoo's mini horse.

  • An important note: Beer sampler packages must be purchased in advance and will not be available for purchase during the event. You'll still be able to buy a beer, but if you plan ahead, you can get samples in a cute SFZA glass with a bear on it. (And you're gonna want that cup – look how cute it is!)

Adult Boo

Where: Great Plains Zoo

When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 10

Admission: $35 for a basic ticket or a $45 Premier Package ticket includes one drink and early access starting at 5:30 p.m.

Activities to watch for: This is the zoo's first-ever 21+ Halloween event, and they're going all out with spooky menu items (hello, Muenster Mash burger), a costume contest, a haunted house experience and an old-timey haunted mansion-style photo op.

  • A special note: Costume rules are the same for kids and adults at ZooBoo and Adult Boo events. You cannot wear a full mask or an inflatable costume.

ZooBoo

Where: Great Plains Zoo

When: Oct 15-18; ZooBoo will run 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15 and Friday, Oct. 16, and then the fun continues Saturday, Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a special Sensory Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18.

Admission: Included in Monarch membership; early access tickets are sold separately for both zoo members and non-members.

Activities to watch for: These events are jam-packed with activities, and each day is a little different. You can find a full line-up on the ZooBoo website. Some highlights include free flowing trick-or-treat stations, Zombie Dancers, a live DJ, and a "Scary Stroll" – which is kind of like a haunted house but appropriate for adults, teens and brave big kids (it could be a little too intense for small or sensitive children).

  • A special note: Costume rules are the same for kids and adults at ZooBoo and Adult Boo events. You cannot wear a full mask or an inflatable costume.

Spooky Seas

Where: Butterfly House and Aquarium

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24

Admission: Included in Monarch membership and regular admission

Activities to watch for: While supplies last, kids can participate in a pirate hat craft, hunt for sunken treasure and, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., meet the Little Mermaid. They can also grab a treat bag on their way out while supplies last.

How can I find tickets?

You can get tickets for individual events on the "Events" tab of the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium website.

You can also gain access to many zoo events with the Monarch membership – find more details here.