OKC Zoo welcomes a wild event season with fan-favorites, new happenings–Breakfast with the Animals, ZOObrew, Haunt the Zoo ticket launch, Curbside Chronicle free Zoo Ticket Offer, and more!

 

OKC ZOO CONTINUES WITH ADJUSTED HOURS, 8 AM TO 2 PM, DUE TO EXTREME HEAT

The Oklahoma City Zoo invites guests to enjoy cooler, early morning excursions as it continues with its adjusted hours, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with last entry at 1 p.m. through Friday, September 4. ZOOfriends members have park access until 1:30 p.m. Stay tuned to the Zoo’s social channels for additional updates.

 

TICKETS ON SALE FOR OKLAHOMA ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S ANNUAL ZOOBREW

Get tickets now for Oklahoma Zoological Society’s ZOObrew, Oklahoma City’s most popular beer-tasting festival and fundraiser, happening on Friday, September 25, 2026. Presented by Byron’s Liquor Warehouse, ZOObrew transforms the Oklahoma City Zoo into a tasting adventure for guests 21-and-older to sample craft beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages from local and regional vendors while supporting wildlife conservation. The evening also includes animal caretaker chats, food trucks, live entertainment, and wildlife experiences unique to the Zoo!

ZOObrew admission starts at $75 per person for general or mocktail tickets and ranges to premium level options with exclusive event access and experiences. Plus, proceeds support the Zoo’s mission to advance wildlife conservation, education, and animal care. ZOObrew tickets must be purchased in advance at www.ozsgiving.org/zoobrew. In preparation for ZOObrew, the Zoo will close at 1 p.m., last entry at noon, on Friday, September 25.

ZOOBREW VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES! Be part of the ZOObrew volunteer crew! Opportunities are available to help with ZOObrew on Friday, September 25 for volunteers 21 or older. Register to volunteer for this and other events at okczoo.org/volunteer.

SEPTEMBER: CURBSIDE CHRONICLE’S POPULAR “OKC ZOO” ISSUE IS BACK WITH FREE GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET TO THE ZOO

Grab a copy of Curbside Chronicle’s September issue and head to the OKC Zoo for free! The Oklahoma City Zoo’s annual collaboration with Curbside Chronicle remains a community favorite with the magazine’s September issue providing readers with a free general admission ticket the Zoo. This special issue is available the month of September for a $2 suggested donation from Curbside vendors throughout the metro area. To redeem the Curbside Chronicle voucher for admission to the OKC Zoo, simply present it at the Zoo’s ticket window upon arrival. Vouchers valid through December 31, 2026.

 

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4: TICKETS ON SALE FOR 43RD ANNUAL HAUNT THE ZOO PRESENTED BY NEWS 9

The Oklahoma City Zoo’s Haunt the Zoo remains the biggest and best Halloween must in Oklahoma!  The 43rd annual Haunt the Zoo for Halloween, presented by Oklahoma’s Own News 9, returns in October with tickets launching on Friday, September 4. This family-friendly trick-or-treating tradition combines the delight of Halloween with the sensory setting of the OKC Zoo. This year, guests will experience a new Haunt the Zoo trail through the Zoo’s Expedition Africa with incredible views of giraffes, lions, zebras, and other African animals, where kiddos collect sweets and treats from friendly event volunteers along the way. Festive activities, decorative photo booths and props, and seasonal food items will be adding to the Halloween vibe. Haunt the Zoo goers of all ages are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to the event. Scary costumes, fake weapons, and full-face masks are not allowed. Haunt the Zoo is happening Saturdays and Sundays, October 10 through 31, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. plus a limited, nighttime Haunt the Zoo celebration complete with trick-or-treating on Friday, October 30. General Zoo admission or ZOOfriends memberships plus, official Haunt the Zoo treat bags are required to trick-or-treat and must be purchased in advance. Official trick-or-treat bags are $10/bag or $9/bag for ZOOfriends members. $1 from every bag sold will benefit the Zoo's conservation efforts for Sri Lanka Elephant Project, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, FUNDESGUA, and others. To purchase tickets and event details, visit www.okczoo.org/HTZ. Haunt the Zoo sponsor partners to date include Oklahoma’s Own News 9, Andy B’s, Bob Moore Subaru, Chick-fil-A, Coca-Cola, Dental Depot, Express Employment, Frito Lay, Global Payments, Lawrence H. and Ronna C. Davis, Primrose, Sam’s Club, and TFCU.

HAUNT THE ZOO FOR HALLOWEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! The OKC Zoo is seeking hundreds of volunteers to support this year’s Haunt the Zoo occurring Saturdays and Sundays, October 10 through 31. Volunteers must 14 or older and any volunteer under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This volunteer opportunity is ideal for individuals and families plus, civic, school and corporate groups. Find information about volunteering for Haunt the Zoo and other events at okczoo.org/volunteer.

 

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5: OUR BLOOD INSTITUTE BLOOD DRIVE AT THE OKC ZOO

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Our Blood Institute (OBI) are teaming up to host a community blood drive on Saturday, September 5, from 9 a.m. to noon. Register in advance to schedule your time or show up when you can and help increase OBI’s blood supply throughout Oklahoma. Donors that participate in the drive will receive a general admission voucher to the OKC Zoo, which may be used through the end of the year. The Zoo will be hosting this blood drive at its Education Center located at the east end of the parking lot. To make an appointment visit www.obi.org. 

 

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5: OKC ZOO CELEBRATES NATIVE SPECIES DAY

The Oklahoma City Zoo connects people with the world’s wildlife, and on Saturday, September 5, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, guests can celebrate Oklahoma’s animals and wild places during Native Species Day! Zoo caretakers will bring focus to our state’s rich biodiversity, and the importance of conserving it, through special activities like educational games and trivia with prizes for kids, caretaker chats, and animal enrichment sessions. Activities will take place throughout the Oklahoma Trails habitat and at the Joan Kirkpatrick Animal Hospital. The Oklahoma Zoological Society will be hosting its Plush for a Purpose program giving guests the opportunity to adopt a mountain lion plush for $25 in support of local conservation. Adding to the festivities, the Zoo will be hosting a native plant and OKC ZOO POO sale in the entry plaza until noon. Plus, the first 500 guests to visit on Saturday will receive a free water bottle sponsored by Shape Your Future a program of TSET. Native Species Day activities are free with regular admission which can be purchased at www.okczoo.org/tickets.

 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6: OKC ZOO HOSTS SENSORY-FRIENDLY HOUR FOR DINOSAUR EXPEDITION

The Oklahoma City Zoo is proud to host a Sensory-Friendly hour for Dinosaur Expedition, presented by Mathis Home, on Sunday, September 6, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Guests will experience a less stimulating environment with smaller crowds and all dinosaur movement, sounds, and effects turned off. Purchase OKC Zoo admission and Dinosaur Expedition tickets in advance at okczoo.org/dinosaurs.

 

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 OR WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9: OKC ZOO VOLUNTEER PROGRAM INFORMATION SESSION

If you’re passionate about the Oklahoma City Zoo, its conservation and education efforts, and excited to share these interests with others, then the Zoo has a volunteer opportunity waiting for you. The OKC Zoo is recruiting for its volunteer program and hosting two information sessions on Tuesday, September 8 or Wednesday, September 9, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Rosser Conservation Education Center. These sessions are open to the public, giving new and returning volunteers a chance to learn about volunteering at the Zoo, those interested in the program only need to attend one session. Register today to attend either session at https://bit.ly/3KWfp57.

 

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 AND SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12: PUBLIC OVERNIGHT AT THE OKC ZOO, UNIQUE EDUCATION EXPERIENCE

Travel back in time for an unforgettable adventure during the Oklahoma City Zoo’s next overnight experience, Debunking Myths: Dinosaurs. Find out about the incredible world of dinosaurs while learning what made these prehistoric animals so unique, meet some of their modern-day relatives that call the OKC Zoo home, and take a nighttime hike through the Zoo’s immersive Dinosaur Expedition exhibit presented by Mathis Home. It’s a night full of engaging games and activities, private evening and morning Zoo hikes, and plenty of prehistoric fun. The cost is $65 per person and all children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Visit www.okczoo.org/private-overnights to register.

 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13: OKC ZOOFRIENDS PASSPORT PERK, FREE WILDFLOWER SEEDS

The Oklahoma City Zoo’s ZOOfriends membership is perfect for Zoo fans wanting the best value and memorable experiences! Members enjoy unlimited Zoo admission for 12 months, discounts and offers, and now, monthly Passport Perks. ZOOfriends are eligible for exclusive perks throughout the year with a current membership. On Sunday, September 13, members will receive a free packet of wildflower pollinator seeds to create a garden at home or in their community, helping support habitat conservation. One packet per Passport. Monthly Passport Perks are subject to availability, animal participation, and weather conditions.  View the complete Passport Perks calendar for upcoming dates and offers.

 

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19: OKC ZOO’S BREAKFAST WITH THE ANIMALS

The Oklahoma City Zoo’s Breakfast with the Animals is the ultimate breakfast experience for the entire family. Join the Zoo on Saturday, September 19 for this wild morning with private access to Dinosaur Expedition, presented by Mathis Home, an animal ambassador presentation, a dinosaur mascot encounter, and a delicious, hearty breakfast buffet! The breakfast menu includes fresh biscuits and gravy, cinnamon roll bread pudding, eggs, breakfast potatoes, sausage, fruit, and coffee. Breakfast with the Animals will be hosted inside the Love's Pachyderm Building beginning at 8:30 a.m. Event admission covers Zoo admission, breakfast, and entry to Dinosaur Expedition. ZOOfriends discounts apply. Purchase tickets at  www.okczoo.org/breakfast.

 

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2025: RESERVATIONS OPEN FOR OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS PRESENTED BY OG&E

Be sure tickets for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS are at the top of your holiday list this season! The Oklahoma City Zoo’s beloved holiday light event, SAFARI LIGHTS, presented by OG&E, returns this winter with new lanterns and more festive fun for all ages! The OKC Zoo will be all aglow for SAFARI LIGHTS featuring a spectacular selection of wildlife and holiday themed lanterns visible along driving and walking courses through the Zoo. The walking experience includes additional lights, interactive displays, and plenty of photo spots for capturing memorable moments. Enjoy a seasonal menu of savory bites, sweet treats, and beverages available at select Zoo concessions. Guests will also discover attractions like private igloos to rent and VIP Safari Sleigh Ride Adventures available to reserve in advance for an extra special evening. New this year, revelers 21 and older, can keep the celebration going at a holiday themed speakeasy open on Friday through Sunday nights plus Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve during SAFARI LIGHTS. OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS runs Saturday, November 14, through Sunday, January 3, 2027 including holiday nights. Reservations are available from 5:30 to 11 p.m. nightly with the last check-in at 10 p.m. and must be made in advance at www.okczoo.org/safarilights. Drive-up purchases will not be accepted. Tickets are limited to ensure optimal guest experience. Event pricing varies based on visit date. ZOOfriends members receive a $15 discount on drive-thru combo admissions and a $4 discount on additional walk-thru admissions.

OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS! The Zoo is in search of volunteers to assist with OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS in various capacities. SAFARI LIGHTS is also an ideal opportunity for group volunteers and individuals. For more information, visit Special Event Volunteering.

OKC ZOO OPENS ENROLLMENT FOR OCTOBER SCHOOLS OUT DAY CAMPS

Looking for engaging and educational experiences for your students during school breaks, enroll them in the Oklahoma City Zoo’s School Out Day Camps. These themed camps provide grade-level learning through outdoor exploration and activities. Enrollment is now open for October’s exclusive camp, Elephant Caretaker Adventure: Up Close and Personal, taking place Thursday, Oct. 15, Friday, Oct. 16, and Monday, Oct. 19, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily for students currently in grades K-5. The cost per child, per day is $54 for ZOOfriend members and $60 for nonmembers. Enroll students at www.okczoo.org/schools-out.

ORDER AN OKC ZOO “ELEPHANT” LICENSE PLATE, SUPPORT WILDLIFE CONSERVATION

Oklahomans are going wild for the Oklahoma City Zoo’s new specialty “elephant” license plate and you can, too! These stunning plates are a unique way to celebrate the OKC Zoo’s Asian elephant herd and its commitment to caring for and conserving this beloved species. $10 from each plate goes directly back to the OKC Zoo to support its conservation initiatives, education programs, and operations. OKC Zoo plates are available at  www.ozsgiving.org/platecontest, click “order plate”.

EXPERIENCE OKC ZOO’S DINOSAUR EXPEDITION, PRESENTED BY MATHIS HOME, UNTIL NOVEMBER 1

There’s still time to journey back to the age of dinosaurs and discover the Oklahoma City Zoo’s Dinosaur Expedition, presented by Mathis Home, available through November 1. Don’t miss this immersive exhibit featuring over 60 animatronic dinosaurs, dinosaur skeletons, fossil digs, and photo ops, and the chance to learn about these fascinating creatures. ZOOfriends can enhance their membership with an exclusive Dinosaur Expedition Season Pass for $28 per person, providing unlimited access to this unique experience. Dinosaur Expedition is located near the Zoo’s Jungle Gym Playground and open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exhibit sponsors include Mathis Home, Continental Resources, Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Mike Ura, Primrose Schools, Michael Melott, and Red Dirt Orthodontics. Find more details at www.okczoo.org/dinosaurs.

THE ZOO AMPHITHEATRE UPCOMING SHOWS

The Zoo Amphitheatre is an award-winning, treasured venue that has been connecting Oklahomans to live music since 1936. Upcoming September and October shows include:

Visit www.okczooamp.com for more information and tickets.

 

OKC ZOO FREE, DAILY CARETAKER CHATS

Connect with the Oklahoma City Zoo’s experts to hear firsthand about their roles in animal care and conservation and the Zoo’s amazing animal family during these informative chats. The daily chat schedule features several animal habitats and is posted on Zoo’s digital map at map.okczoo.org/home.

 

OKC ZOO ATTRACTIONS OFER YEAR-ROUND FUN, ADVENTURE

During your next visit to the Oklahoma City Zoo, find adventure and fun with the Zoo’s various experiences and attractions! Get up close and personal with giraffes, flamingos, and other animals during select animal feedings. Hop aboard the Elephant Express Tram, take a spin on the Endangered Species Carousel, or cruise the Zoo on a Scooter Pal. Plus, Wild Encounters offer guests the chance to go behind the scenes to meet the Zoo’s animals and experts in a memorable way! Additional costs apply for most attractions and activities are dependent on weather and animal participation. Plan your Zoo visit today at www.okczoo.org/experiences.

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, and TikTok, and through the Zoo’s Blog. Discover what makes the OKC Zoo’s ZOOfriends program stand out above the rest as an incredible value with exclusive benefits and become a member today at www.okczoo.org/membership.