New 21-and-older event combines lights spectacular with holiday “spirits” for adults-only experience.

 

Adults can take back the holidays at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden during this year’s inaugural Mistletoe Mingle 21-and-older event on Thursday, November 20 from 6 to 10 p.m.

 

“We are proud that OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS has become a holiday tradition for so many families in Oklahoma,” said Jenna Dodson, OKC Zoo’s director of events and sales. “We hope Mistletoe Mingle becomes an event our adult fans look forward to each year, as well. An adults-only SAFARI LIGHTS evening was one of the most-requested items on a survey of past attendees,” added Dodson.

 

Mistletoe Mingle includes the entire SAFARI LIGHTS experience, with both drive-thru and walk-thru courses, while putting the spotlight on holiday fun and cheer for grown-ups (and no kids!). Drive-thru tickets, which include two walk-thru wristbands, are $50 per vehicle ($35 per vehicle for ZOOfriends members). Walk-thru only admissions are $18 per person ($14 for ZOOfriends members).

 

Guests can pre-purchase food and drink packages to indulge in tasty holiday treats like charcuterie cups, holiday bao buns, and chocolate-dipped waffles with candy cane crunch. There will be holiday specialty drinks, as well, including the Blueberry Winter Smash (with vodka, blueberry puree, and elderflower liqueur), spiked hot chocolate, canned cocktails, and a selection of beers. Food-only packages are $22 and include four food tickets. Drink-only packages are $35 for four drink tickets. The combination food and drink package is $55 and includes four drink tickets and four food tickets.

 

Adding to the holly jolly fun of the evening, ticketholders can also enjoy:

 

  • Holiday Karaoke: Belt out classic and pop holiday tunes!   
  • Caricature Artists: ‘Tis the season, treat yourself to a custom caricature!
  • Santa-in-training: Get your photo taken with the soon-to-be-Santa before he takes the gig full-time!
  • Plus, surprise appearances from other favorite holiday characters, both naughty and nice!

 

Reserve Mistletoe Mingle tickets and purchase food and drink packages now at okczoo.org/safarilights.

 

Established in 1902, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden inspires more than a million visitors annually to take action to conserve wildlife and wild places. From education programs to scientific research, the OKC Zoo is working to save species regionally and worldwide. The OKC Zoo is located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35 and a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, and Oklahoma City’s Adventure District. During the OKC Zoo’s Winter Hours, Monday, December 1 through Wednesday, February 4, 2026, park hours will be open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday/Sunday with last entry at 4 p.m. The park will be closed to guests during the day on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Purchase Zoo admission in advance at okczoo.org/tickets to avoid the entry lines. For more Zoo information, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, Linktree, TikTok, and by visiting our blog stories.