The Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary will present “Gators and Ghouls,” family-friendly event 5:30-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25 and Saturday, Oct. 26 at its site near 78th Street and Dynamite Road.

The renowned reptile sanctuary in north Scottsdale invites guests to spend the evening roaming the sanctuary, enjoying the flying bats above and creepy crawlies below, according to a press release, describing the event.

Attendees can walk through the foggy swamps of the Gator area, but are cautioned about the “ghouls.”

This is not meant to be a scary event but fun. Although the snakes might be a little creepy for some people, PHS staff and volunteers will be available to help people overcome any fears.

Proceeds from the event will help support PHS’ mission of “Conservation through Education,” the release said as the sanctuary is home to hundreds of native and exotic reptiles, many of them endangered and participants in captive breeding programs.

The event will also feature:

• A petting zoo and interactions in the PHS classroom
• A chance to watch alligators, crocodiles and venomous snakes being fed
• Trick or treating for the humans
• A costume contest at 7 p.m.
• Observe the crocs in the dark using flashlights and headlamps; they can be found by their reflective eyeshine

Advance tickets are required. Register at phoenixherp.com; click on the Gators & Ghouls banner on the home page.

For more information, contact Katelyn Garcia, at katelyn@phoenixherp.com or 480-513-4377, extension  3.