The OKC Zoo and Botanical Garden sends this information as posted below:
Since it debuted in 2021, OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS has quickly become a beloved holiday tradition for thousands of Oklahoma families. This year, in addition to new decorative lanterns and interactive displays, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is introducing a bevy of options and experiences to make the holidays merrier and brighter than ever.
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS, presented by OG&E, begins Saturday, November 15 and runs nightly through Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 5:30 to 11 p.m. with the last check in at 10 p.m. Guests can drive through a wonderland of wildlife- and holiday-themed lanterns before parking in front of the Zoo and entering for an immersive walking experience with interactive light displays, photo stations, and seasonal treats.
“Every year, we look at ways to go bigger and brighter than the year before,” said OKC Zoo events manager Jenna Dodson. “We’ve added plenty of new options to make this event even more memorable for guests, many of whom have been returning annually since we began.”
New this year with OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS:
- Mistletoe Mingle: Get into the holiday spirits with some spirits at Mistletoe Mingle, the OKC Zoo’s 21-and-older holiday event. Thursday, November 20 will be an adults-only night at OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS with festive cocktails, spiked cocoa, holiday treats, holiday karaoke, and visits from holiday characters. Tickets are $50 for drive-thru admission and two walk-thru wristbands (or $35 for ZOOfriends members). Walk-thru only tickets are $18 each ($14 for ZOOfriends members). Food and beverage packages can be added for an additional cost.
- Igloo Rentals: Take a breather from the holiday hustle and bustle by reserving a private igloo. Whether it’s a gathering spot, a place to grab a meal, or just a respite from the crowds, a private igloo takes a special night to the next level. Rentals start at $250 and can accommodate up to 8. ZOOfriends save $20 when booking this experience.
- Safari Sleigh Rides: Guests can enjoy a chauffeured VIP adventure with a ride on a private “sleigh” as they take a guided tour of SAFARI LIGHTS on a festively decorated golf cart, along with warm blankets and hot cocoa. The tour continues on foot through the walk-thru portion, as well! ZOOfriends receive $30 off when booking this experience.
- Pictures with Santa: Get a North Pole-worthy portrait with Santa on the following dates: November 15-16, 22-30, December 4-7, 11-14, and 18-24. Picture prices range from $35 to $75 with add-ons for additional prints, frames, and snow globes. There’s no purchase necessary to meet Santa.
The OKC Zoo will host a Sensory-Friendly Night for SAFARI LIGHTS on Thursday, December 4, from 6 to 9 p.m. Attendees can anticipate a less-stimulating sensory environment with lower crowd sizes, limited flashing lights, and reduced sounds while experiencing the magic of SAFARI LIGHTS.
They say giving is better than receiving, but why not enjoy both? Volunteer for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS and help spread the holiday cheer! Volunteers receive a general admission pass to the OKC Zoo as well as a 40 percent discounts on event-only treats and merchandise. Visit our Sign Up Genius page to learn more.
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS will be open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The estimated time to complete the driving tour is 20 minutes.
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS is presented by OG&E and supporting sponsors include Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, Devon Energy, MidFirst Bank, and Homeland. Interactive sponsors are Continental Resources, Claudia Holliman, and Enbrighten. Highlight sponsors include The Chickasaw Nation, TTCU, Robot House, Lawrence H & Ronna C Davis, The Midgett Family, John Stuemky & James Brand, The Kerr Foundation, Express Employment International, E.L. & Thelma Gaylord Foundation, and Christi and Nolan Coyle. OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS is produced by the Oklahoma City Zoo and Tianyu Culture.
Online reservations are required for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS and can be made at www.okczoo.org/safari-lights. Drive-up purchases will not be accepted. Tickets are limited to ensure optimal guest experience. Event pricing varies based on visit date, you pick the date that works best with your schedule and budget. ZOOfriends members receive a $10 discount on drive-thru admissions and a $2 discount on additional walk-thru admissions. To make reservations or for additional details, visit okczoo.org/safarilights.
The Oklahoma City Zoo is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with the last entry no later than 4 p.m. Purchase advance Zoo admission tickets at okczoo.org/tickets and avoid the entry lines. Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the OKC Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, and Oklahoma City’s Adventure District. Zoo admission is $16 for adults and $13 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free.
Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, Linktree and TikTok, and by visiting our blog stories. Looking for a year of Zoo adventures? Consider a 12-month, ZOOfriends Membership Passport to the OKC Zoo providing general admission year-round and exclusive offers while supporting the Zoo’s ongoing animal care and conservation programs. Memberships can be purchased at okczoo.org/membership.
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