Presented by Voya | T Fiber | Iowa Taproom
Now thru Oct 31
Each October, the Greater Des Moines BOOtanical Garden transforms the dome into one of Central Iowa’s most unforgettable destinations. The tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House are filled with immersive Halloween décor, lighting, entertainment, and plants that highlight the creepy and curious side of the natural world.
Did You Know?
- The Predatory Plant pop-up has 13 different carnivorous plant species across 5 genera!
- You are surrounded by thousands of lights and hundreds of creepy ‘creatures’ within the dome
- The Pumpkin Tree display is made up of 135 pumpkins, squash, and gourds
Three Distinct Experiences
- Eerie Evenings explore after hours during delightfully spooky nights
- Boos & Brews gather your 21+ friends for local brewery samples and live entertainment at this one-night-only evening event
Watch a video to experience the Boos & Brews vibe! - Trick or Trees celebrate a family-friendly Halloween filled with costumes, magic, and trick-or-TREEting
Treat Yourself to a Little Extra
Iowa Taproom Partnership
- Get a FREE pint at Iowa Taproom: Join us for Eerie Evenings or Boos & Brews, show your ticket receipt at Iowa Taproom and get a free pint of beer with purchase of another of equal or lesser value. Limit one per customer. OR, enjoy Iowa Taproom first, then bring in the receipt and one person in your group gets in free during Botanical Garden Daily General Admission hours. Limit one per group. Good only October 2026.
Offered nightly, 6–9 PM
- Plant a vining succulent in a mini cauldron during this self-guided activity. No preregistration is required.
Thursday, Oct. 29, 5:30–7 PM
- Learn about carnivorous plants, their unusual adaptations, and how to care for them. Then create a container of carnivorous plants to take home.
Saturday, Oct. 31, 6–7 PM | Ages 21+
- Explore poisonous plants, bat pollination, carnivorous plants, and other creepy corners of the plant world. Participate in a live carnivorous plant feeding and take home a plant of your own
So many people help make this incredible event happen.
42 volunteers, 4 corporate partners, and many community partners plus sponsors all come together with the Greater Des Moines BOOtanical Garden staff to design, create, build and help bring this event to life. We are grateful for the support and hope you enjoy it during this spooky season.
Happy Haunting!
Purchase your tickets in advance, it’s scary how fast these events sell out! CLICK HERE.
