How to Make a Can o' Lantern

Materials needed:

• Clean and empty cans of all sizes (try to use a can opener that cuts both the lid and can without sharp edges)
• Gesso (recommended but not necessary)
• Acrylic paints in the colors of orange, black, green and white
• A wine bottle cork
• Orange mesh ribbon
• Green natural raffia
• Hot glue gun or thick designer craft glue
• A pencil

Instructions: 

1. Paint a coat of gesso on the can if desired and let it dry.
2. Paint the can with 2 coats of orange acrylic paint and let it thoroughly dry.
3. Paint the can lid and the cork with green acrylic paint.
4. Use the pencil and draw the eyes, nose and mouth on the can. Paint then the facial features with black paint.
5. Once dry, add 2 white dots on the eyes.
6. Use the hot glue gun or the craft glue and glue the cork onto the center of the can lid.
7. Cut 2 or 3 pieces of green raffia about 12 cm long and lay aside.
8. Cut a piece of mesh ribbon about 10 cm long. Gather the piece in the middle and tie it off with the raffia to look like a bow. Split the raffia if possible to make the strands thinner.
9. Glue the raffia and ribbon now in front of the cork. Place the lid on the can with the bow in the front.

Find more BOOriffic green Halloween craft ideas at www.craftideas.info.

Don’t be scared… We have 10 tips for Boo at the Zoo!

1. Wear layers - You never know what the weather may be like here on the side of the mountain. Wear layers so you are prepared for anything.
2. Bring a flashlight - The zoo is lit for this event, but it’s always nice to have a little extra light.
3. Save money for hot chocolate - Bring a little extra money to warm up at the Grizzly Grill with a cup of hot chocolate.
4. Wear comfortable shoes - Don’t forget when you’re planning your costume, comfy footwear is a must for the terrain here at the zoo
5. Bring a bag - There is plenty of orangutan friendly candy for everyone during Boo at the Zoo! Don’t forget your reusable treat bag.
6. Skip the parking line - Use the FREE shuttle, leaving from the Broadmoor Fire Department. You can purchase your Boo at the Zoo tickets right on the shuttle.
7. Renew your membership - Don’t forget to renew your zoo membership before the event to take advantage of the special members-only admission discount.
8. Bring your Zeezo’s receipt – Remember to bring your Zeezo’s receipt during the first weekend to receive a $2 admission discount (valid Oct. 21-23 only).
9. Check your watch – Make sure to keep tabs on time so you don’t miss “Things That Go Bump in the Night” animal show performed nightly at 6:15, 7:15 and 8:00 at Lodge at Moose Lake.
10. Don’t forget to HAVE FUN!