Spooky season is creeping up, and families can celebrate Halloween with a nature twist at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s annual ArBOOretum Family Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 17.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., little ghosts, goblins and nature lovers can head to the Arboretum for a full day of family fun, including the popular Trick-or-Treat Nature Trail, where children can learn about creatures that call the Arboretum home while collecting candy along the way.

The Arboretum’s biggest family event of the year will feature activities for all ages, including a Birds of Prey Program, Snake Encounter, pumpkin decorating, face painting, story time, carnival games, train rides and a Monster Mart.

Families can also cool down in the Bat Cave, explore the ArBOOretum Adventure, visit the pumpkin patch, take photos with Spider-Man and Moana, and meet a scarecrow stilt walker. Food trucks and refreshments will also be available. The event offers plenty of opportunities for families to get into the Halloween spirit while spending time outdoors and learning about nature.

ArBOOretum is free for Arboretum members and children under age 3. Tickets for nonmembers ages 3 and up are $25 through Oct. 16 and $30 on Oct. 17. Registration is required for both members and nonmembers, and guests will select a preferred arrival time.

Proceeds from the event support the Houston Arboretum’s nature conservation and educational programming.

The Arboretum will also continue its Zero Waste effort during ArBOOretum, aiming to divert at least 90 percent of event waste from landfills. Guests are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and use the festival’s Zero Waste Stations to properly sort their waste.

Comfortable walking shoes and costumes are encouraged. The event will take place rain or shine, but pets are not permitted.

Parking on the Arboretum grounds will not be available during the festival. Parking will be available at 1850 Post Oak Park Drive, with shuttles running throughout the day. Limited handicap parking will be available at the Woodway Entrance at 4501 Woodway Drive, which will also serve as the rideshare entrance.

With trick-or-treating, critter encounters, pumpkins and plenty of outdoor fun, ArBOOretum gives Houston families a chance to celebrate Halloween in nature’s neighborhood.

ArBOOretum Family Fall Festival
When: Saturday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Last entry at 3 p.m.
Where: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Tickets: Free for members and children under 3; $25 for nonmembers ages 3 and up through Oct. 16; $30 on Oct. 17.