Reservations are open for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS, presented by OG&E, featuring all new lanterns, expanded ticket options, and novel experiences.
The most wonderful time of the year is near with the return of OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS! With an incredible selection of original lanterns and exciting activities, SAFARI LIGHTS, presented by OG&E, continues to create memorable experiences for Oklahomans during the holiday season.
“We’re incredibly proud that Oklahomans are making SAFARI LIGHTS an annual happening for their family and friends, and want to ensure each experience is different,” said OKC Zoo Director of Events and Sales, Jenna Dodson. “Each year, our teams go above and beyond to provide a quality event with exciting elements and extras that inspire lasting holiday memories and connections to the Zoo for guests of all ages.”
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS shines on for its sixth year from Saturday, November 14, through Sunday, January 3, 2027, and is open nightly from 5:30 to 11 p.m. with final check in at 9:30 p.m. Guests will encounter a wonderland of illuminated sculptures on driving and walking tours within the Zoo. This year, there are four ways to enjoy the glow of SAFARI LIGHTS with expanded ticket and VIP options ideal for families and friend groups including:
- Drive-Thru Combo Tickets: Get the best of SAFARI LIGHTS in one ticket! Drive through dazzling lantern displays from the comfort of your vehicle, then continue the adventure while walking the event pathways. Admission covers one vehicle and up to four walk-through admissions included. Tickets start at $45 for ZOOfriends.
- Walk-Thru Admission: Embark on a magical stroll through SAFARI LIGHTS with spectacular views of the lanterns, interactive displays, and perfect photo opportunities. Check out the Zoo’s seasonal menu of tasty eats, sweets, and beverages available nightly. Pricing starts at $10/person for ZOOfriends.
- Safari Sleigh Ride Tours: This option lets you see SAFARI LIGHTS in style with a guided drive-thru tour on a festively decorated golf cart! VIP walk-thru experience, hot cocoa, cozy blankets, and unforgettable holiday memories for up to seven guests.
- Private Igloo Rentals: Treat family and friends to a special night of SAFARI LIGHTS with your own private igloo. These exclusive accommodations are perfect for any group looking to grab a meal or take a break from the weather while enjoying the lights. Choose from three igloo themes with pricing starting at $250 per rental. Reservations include one drive-thru combo ticket with up to four walk-thru admissions. Additional guests can be added for $40 per person, max group size of 8 people.
The OKC Zoo will also dazzle adult guests with its newest addition to SAFARI LIGHTS, the Holiday Hideaway. Merrymakers 21 and older will find fun and good cheer at this exclusive retreat as they celebrate the season alongside family and friends with festive cocktails and beverages plus a selection of delicious foods while visiting SAFARI LIGHTS. The Holiday Hideaway is included in the walk-thru admission and open Friday through Sunday nights plus Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Santa will be making appearances at OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS courtesy of Homeland and available for photos and to greet kiddos in the Zoo’s Canopy Restaurant. There’s no purchase necessary to meet him! Santa’s schedule for SAFARI LIGHTS is Thursdays to Sundays, November 14 through December 24, from 6 to 10 p.m. each night.
The OKC Zoo is bringing a little extra sparkle to SAFARI LIGHTS with some community partners providing live performances during the event. These performances will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. (with breaks) near the Zoo’s main entrance. Activities are free to attend with walk-thru admission to SAFARI LIGHTS. Save the date for performances from OKC Ballet’s Studio Company (Saturday, November 15 and Tuesday, December 1), Oklahoma Ballet Theatre in Edmond (Saturday, November 21), and Lyric Academy Students, carol singing (Saturday, December 19).
Advance online reservations are required for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS and are limited, so fans are encouraged to purchase early. Event pricing is based on ticket options and visit date, guests choose what works best with their schedule and budget. For reservations, visit www.okczoo.org/safarilights.
Check out the OKC Zoo’s biggest and brightest volunteer opportunity during SAFARI LIGHTS. Volunteers wishing to help must be 14 or older and volunteers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. A gift for you: volunteers receive a free general admission voucher to the OKC Zoo along with 40 percent discounts on event-only treats and merchandise in the park! Visit our Sign-Up Genius page to learn more.
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS is presented by OG&E with supporting sponsors Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, Devon, Homeland, and MidFirst Bank. Additional sponsor levels include Interactive: Continental Resources, Enbrighten, and JE Dunn Construction; Highlight: Global Payments, Inasmuch Foundation, Lawrence H. and Ronna C. Davis, The Chickasaw Nation, TTCU Federal Credit Union; and Lightbulb: Anonymous, E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, Express Employment International, Independent Insurance Agents Association OKC, Joseph & Tiffany Midgett, Kyle & Sara Sweet, RS Fuel, Sally Saunders, The Furry Guys, Tim Beck & Tyla Beach, and Tinker Federal Credit Union.
The highlight of the holidays, OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS, occurs Saturday, November 14, 2026 through Sunday, January 3, 2027, including holiday nights Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and Day. Event hours are 5:30 to 11 p.m. nightly with the last check-in at 9:30 p.m. For additional information about SAFARI LIGHTS or to make online reservations, visit www.okczoo.org/safarilights.
Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums and Oklahoma City’s Adventure District. Zoo admission can be purchased at the park or online at www.okczoo.org/tickets. Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, Instagram, Linktree, TikTok, LinkedIn, and by visiting our blog stories. Zoo more with a ZOOfriends membership! Members enjoy free admission to the Zoo for 12 months, plus exclusive benefits and discounts while supporting the Zoo’s animal care and conservation efforts locally and globally. Join ZOOfriends today at www.okczoo.org/membership.