The National Zoo called off its annual Halloween kids’ event, a disappointment for many D.C.-area families as the government shutdown hit two weeks with no clear signs of a resolution.

Boo at the Zoo , which was set to happen on Oct. 17, 18 and 19, is canceled, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute announced Tuesday.

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Tickets and parking passes will be automatically refunded, the zoo said.

Those who bought tickets can also choose to donate the cost of their order by using this form . The donations will be accepted until the date listed on your ticket and support animal conservation efforts. If you don’t opt in to the donation, you will be refunded, the zoo said.

Families looking to celebr

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