Softer sounds, fewer flashing lights, and smaller crowds make OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS more inclusive for guests with sensory issues.
The holidays can be a lot for anyone, but for those with sensory issues, the intense atmosphere of lights and sounds can be overwhelming. The STAR Institute for Sensory Processing estimates that at least 5% of the general population have symptoms associated with sensory processing challenges. Understanding this, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is hosting a Sensory-Friendly Night on Friday, November 8 for its popular winter attraction, OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS.
“The Zoo is committed to making both our daily and special event experiences accessible to guests,” said Jenna Dodson, OKC Zoo’s events manager. “Providing a Sensory-Friendly Night ensures that every guest can enjoy OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS, which has become one of the state’s most popular holiday traditions.”
Presented by OG&E, OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS is a drive-through and walk-through holiday experience open nightly starting Saturday, November 9, 2024 through New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1, 2025. The Zoo is decorated with more than 70 light sculptures representing larger-than-life animals and holiday themes, photo opportunity spots, and interactive exhibits. During the Sensory-Friendly Night on Friday, November 8, from 6 to 9 p.m. with the last entry at 8 p.m., the lights are modulated to be more comfortable, music is quieter, and there are fewer people in the park.
New to the OKC Zoo is the addition of an all-new KultureCity Sensory Room specially designed to offer guests with sensory issues a safe and calming space. Located off the Zoo’s entry plaza, the quiet area provides a cool, dark space with relaxing furniture, textured wallpaper, and a collection of sensory soothing activities.
Advance reservations are required for the Sensory-Friendly Night and capacity is limited so book now at www.okczoo.org/safari-lights.
Reservations are now open for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS occurring nightly Saturday, November 9 through New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1, 2025 with drive-thru and walk-thru experiences from 5:30 to 11 p.m. with the last check-in at 10 p.m. OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS will be open on holiday nights including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. 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. Admission for the drive-thru experience is $60-$75 per vehicle (ZOOfriends members receive a $10 discount) and includes up to 4 walk-thru admission tickets. Admission for the walk-thru only is $14-$18 per guest ages 3 and older ZOOfriends members receive a $2 discount). Supporting OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS sponsors include Devon, MidFirst Bank, and Homeland.
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. Membership has its perks! As a ZOOfriends member of the Oklahoma City Zoo, enjoy free admission all year-long, plus many additional benefits and discounts. You will also be supporting the Zoo’s animal family, education programming and conservation initiatives both locally and globally. Join or renew today at www.okczoo.org/membership.
Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, X, Instagram, Linktree and TikTok, and by visiting our blog stories. To learn more about Zoo happenings, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org.