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

Simplified: From making treasure maps with the Little Mermaid to a family fun run through the zoo, there's a lot of fall fun to be had this month with the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium. Here's a look at what's happening.

Why it matters

  • Both the Butterfly House and Aquarium and the Great Plains Zoo have Halloween-themed events this month with Spooky Seas and Zoo Boo, respectively.
  • Spooky Seas on Oct. 26 has a pirate theme this year, with a chance to make your own treasure map and see the Little Mermaid.
  • Zoo Boo also has some new features this year, including a half-mile Family Fun Boo Run to kick off the weekend, as well as an opportunity for guests to enjoy the zoo after regular hours.
    • It's also taking place a week earlier than it has in the past, running Oct. 18-20.
"We hope it'll be warmer weather," said Denise DePaolo, PR and marketing manager. "And then the following week, we'll have our warmer, indoor event with Spooky Seas."

Tell me more about Zoo Boo

The event kicks off Friday night with the family run. Participants can register and get a race bib starting at 5:30 p.m.

  • Then enjoy pre-race yoga with Sioux Falls Flow and Paddle, as well as a DJ in the plaza presented by Good Times Entertainment.
  • The race begins at 6:30 p.m., and afterward guests can enjoy popcorn and cider in the plaza while watching a South Dakota Aerial Fire Show at 7:45 p.m.
  • The zoo will stay open until 9 p.m. Friday.

Then on Saturday, the zoo will open an hour early for Sensory Saturday, which allows people with sensory processing issues to enjoy the zoo in a more quiet, calm setting.

  • Then from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both Friday and Saturday guests can enjoy trick or treating with more than 20 vendors.

The zoo will have special event pricing for ZooBoo. Admission is included with the Monarch and Gold members, and these members can buy additional guest tickets for $5. Those with standard memberships can also purchase tickets for $5.

Please note: Costumes are allowed and encouraged, but they must be family friendly. No inflatable costumes, full face masks for adults or violent costumes will be allowed. Costumes may not contain any sharp or jutting objects that could harm other guests.

Tell me more about Spooky Seas

Spooky Seas will start at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26 at the Butterfly House – with most of the activities taking place before 2 p.m.

Guests can create their own treasure map, get a goodie bag with Halloween treats, meet the Little Mermaid and see seasonal decorations in the animal habitats.

Admission is included with a Monarch membership or with a regular ticket purchase. You can get your tickets here.

  • Spooky Seas has the same costume guidelines as ZooBoo.