The Oregon Zoo's annual Squishing of the Squash, in which some of the world's largest land animals demolish some of the area's largest pumpkins, will be held Friday, Oct. 26, at 10:30 a.m. "At the Squishing of the Squash, our elephant herd will receive several big pumpkins to pulverize," said zoo event coordinator Krista Swan. "It's great fun for them, and fun to watch as well — so bring your camera."
The Squishing of the Squash is a precursor to the zoo's Howloween celebration, presented by Sterling Bank on Saturday, Oct. 27, and Sunday, Oct. 28. Events include a fun scavenger hunt that directs trick-or-treaters to easily accessible activity stations throughout the zoo. Goodie bags filled with candy and prizes await scavenger-hunters at the zoo's exit.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can watch the zoo's enrichment team provide animals with pumpkins and other holiday-themed treats. "After all," Swan noted, "the elephants can't have all the fun."
Pumpkins for the Squishing of the Squash and other enrichment events will be provided by Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers. The zoo's Asian elephants receive the massive squash at 10:30 a.m.