Turtle Back Zoo's Howl-o-Ween Postponed

Essex County's Turtle Back Zoo will reschedule its trick-or-treating event, Howl-o-ween, county officials announced Monday afternoon.

The early snowstorm caused power outages and damages to the South Mountain Recreation Complex that houses the zoo, according to Anthony Puglisi, spokesman for the county. The complex was closed Sunday and remain closed Monday.

Puglisi said Howl-o-ween will be postponed until Thursday, Nov. 3 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. said every municipality in the county was affected by the storm. He also warned trick-or-treaters should be careful of downed wires and parents should consider having their children trick-or-treat at safe havens, rather than door-to-door.

On Thursday, children and their parents are invited to trick-or-treat around the zoo, located at 560 Northfield Ave., in West Orange.

"Come dressed in your costumes and trick-or-treat in our zoo neighborhood. The festive atmosphere will be enjoyable for both kids and their parents, and the adults will have peace of mind knowing their children are celebrating Halloween in a safe and controlled atmosphere,” said Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.

Besides 30 stations around the zoo that will be open for trick-or-treating, children can also take a train ride, enjoy free apple cider and see a free magic show. 

Admission to the zoo is $3 for members of the Zoological Society of New Jersey and $5 for non-members. Registration is recommended by visiting www.turtlebackzoo.com.
 
Turtle Back Zoo is open Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Regular admission is $7 for children and senior citizens, $10 for adults and free for children under 2 years. For additional information, please call 973-731-5800.