Beary Scary Halloween

Visit Grandfather Mountain for a day of nature programs about animals that some consider creepy and crawly! This fun-filled celebration includes an opportunity to trick-or-treat on the mountain and then watch special Halloween enrichments be given to the animals. Included with admission.

Plus, children in costume are admitted at half-price. Children coming in costume do not need to make advance admission ticket reservations online. The discount will be given at the Entrance Gate. Those planning to visit the park not in costume are strongly encouraged to make advance ticket reservations online at grandfather.com/tickets.

2025 Beary Scary Schedule:

• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | “Test Your Animal Knowledge” Contest / Contest drawing at 2:15 p.m. (Classroom in the Clouds)
• 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Games and craft table! Come play some fun animal-themed games and make a fun craft. (Classroom in the Clouds)
• 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Trick-or-treating at the Animal Habitats (The outdoor locations are weather dependent, and trick-or-treating will move indoors, if needed.)
• 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Trick-or-treating at the Gate House, the Wilson Center (Classroom in the Clouds, Gift Shop) and the Top Shop
• 12 – 2 p.m. | Conservation Through Colors Table! Support the American Association of Zoo Keepers and red wolf conservation by purchasing animal paintings, with a chance to win extra fun prizes! (Classroom in the Clouds)
• 12:30 – 1 p.m. | Beary Scary educational program (Outside the Wilson Center under the covered walkway)
• 1 – 1:30 p.m. | Animal Encounter! Come meet a few of Grandfather’s resident animals, including snakes and an opossum. (Classroom in the Clouds)
• 1 – 2:15 p.m. | Creepy Critter Corner! Come see some of the mountain’s “creepier” animals. (Classroom in the Clouds)
• 1:30 – 2 p.m. | Costume Contest (Classroom in the Clouds)
• 2:15 p.m. | “Test Your Animal Knowledge” Contest Drawing! Winners will be announced at the Classroom in the Clouds. Contest winners get the rare opportunity to go behind the scenes to visit the animal they were knowledgeable about! Winners are allowed to take family members with them. Participants must be present to win.
• 2:45 – 3:30 p.m. | Enrichment parade throughout the habitats, starting at the elk habitat! Animals will receive special Halloween enrichments.