(Springfield, MO) -- Generations of kids in the Ozarks have spent October nights prowling around Dickerson Park Zoo as part of their Halloween tradition.  This is the 29th year for this family favorite. 

Every October, the Dickerson Park Zoo plans something Spooktacular for the Howl-o-ween season.
Melinda Arnold joins us to talk about this year's Spooktacular

Halloween SPOOKTACULAR, Oct. 22 through Halloween night, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Hundreds of jack-o-lanterns, hand-carved by Springfield-area school children, will light part of the path of the 26th annual event. Area scouting and youth organizations bring their creativity to the Festival of Scarecrows. Guests will follow the narrated journey leading to "Where the Wild Things Are."

New for 2009, Dickerson Park Zoo presents the "Flintstones' photo stop," "Spiderman Returns," "Looney Tunes," "The Haunted Mausoleum" and the "Haunted Garden" on the "spooky loop." The spooky loop is an optional path intended for older children and adults.

Children age 12 and younger can "goblin up" candy treats from costumed volunteers at 10 treat stations throughout the zoo. Along the way, check out the Festival of Scarecrows, dig in at Bucky's Bone Dig, find your way through the Maze, play at the carnival game tent, hop in to the inflatable bounce and take a spin on the Witch's Kettle carnival ride (nominal fee).

For an additional $2 per person, climb aboard the Titus Express for an after-dark train ride. Children can also visit with "Hometown Heroes" from area law enforcement and public safety agencies as a special treat.

Ticket prices are $5 at the gate for everyone age one and older. Beginning mid-October, tickets can be purchased in advance for $4 at McDonald's restaurants in Springfield, Ozark, Nixa, Republic and Battlefield. Children younger than age one and Friends of the Zoo members are admitted free.