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Florida's Halloween Celebrations
Florida Celebrates In Scary and Not-So-Scary Traditions

By , About.com Guide

Headless HorsemanCompliments of Walt Disney Company

Fright Nights
Silver Springs - Ocala
October 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 & 31, 2009

The Ocala Jaycees’ 38th Annual Fright Nights, held at the Silver Springs attraction are sure to provide attendees plenty of frightfull fun. When the sun goes down, the Haunted Mansion, Terror Island, Creature Features, Psycho Panther Prowl and “Gator Man” river Cruise at Ft. King Waterway are just a few of the terror-filled activities that await unsuspecting guests. Held Friday and Saturday nights from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m.

Zoo Boo 2009
Lowry Park Zoo - Tampa
September 25 & 26 (Preview nights)
October 2-3, 9-11, 15-18, 22-25, 28-31

Many animals at the Lowry Park Zoo will be decked out for the festivities when Lowry Park Zoo presents Zoo Boo. The special event features haunted houses including the Little Tyke Boo House and spooky game yard. All regular rides and attractions will be open 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. (Friday and Saturday dates) and 7:00 to 10:00 (Sunday through Thursday dates) for one low price.

Besides the three haunted houses, in the past, Zoo Boo has included such fun as the Friendly Boneyard Maze, the Grinning Ghostwalk, and Creepy Crawlers Lane. Goulish Games of Eyeball Throw, Frog Guts Toss, and Air Head are available for an additional charge.

This event is great fun for small children!

22nd Annual Spooktacular
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens - Jacksonville
October 22-25, 29-31

A great kid-friendly annual event featuring live entertainment, music, bounce houses, face painting and so much more. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and stop by treat-stations location throughout the zoo. 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Halloween Haven 2009
Flamingo Gardens - Davie
October 30 & 31

There will be chills and thrills for children in the haunted house in the Gallery at Flamingo Gardens from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily. The haunt is recommended for children up to 11 years of age. Classic favorites also will be shown at the Flamingo Fright Film Fest from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Half price admission ($8.50 for ages 12 and up and $4.25 for children 4-11) will include the botanical gardens, animal exhibits, wildlife encounter shows and historic Wray Home, as well as the haunted house. Tour by tram is extra. Parking is free.

MetroBoo!
Miami Metrozoo - Miami
October 30 & 31

This kid-approved, family-friendly event will feature trick-or-treating, costume contests, music, animal encounters and more each day from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Be sure to check the Florida for Visitors' Events Calendar for more Halloween events.

And, more of Florida's Halloween fun:

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