The Oregon Zoo welcomes “Howloween” with “Squiishing of the Squash,” an elephant fun game

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Zoo invites fall fun with the annual “Squiishing of the Squash,” where excited spectators can watch as the zoo’s herd of Asian elephants happily smash and smash an 800-pound pumpkin—and then eat it as a tasty fall treat.

“First they destroy them, then they enjoy them,” senior keeper Dimas Dominguez once told KATU about the famous event.

And really, who doesn't want to watch excited pachyderms pulverize giant pumpkins?

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:Elephants at Oregon Zoo smash giant pumpkins in annual 'Squiishing of the Squash'

The zoo is a beloved fall tradition that dates back 25 years. According to the zoo, squishing began in 1999 when Hoffman's Dairy Garden in Canby dropped off an award-winning, 828-pound pumpkin for the elephants.

“Back then, local farmers often donated excess pumpkins to the zoo’s groundbreaking animal enrichment efforts – improving animal well-being by providing stimulating and challenging environments, objects and activities,” the zoo previously told KATU.

Officials say the 800-pound pumpkin was provided this year by the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers Club.

The event is a precursor to “Howloween,” the Oregon Zoo’s fall celebration.

The event will take place October 19-20 and October 26-27 and costumed trick-or-treaters can learn about healthy wildlife habitats through exciting activities throughout the zoo.

Further information about the event can be found here HERE.