OKC Zoo Hosting Gala To Raise Funds & Bring Penguins To Zoo

This spring, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens will be hosting their fourth annual Gala on Friday, June 6. The "Waddle and Whirl" themed event will help raise funds for the OKC Zoo's next major habitat expansion for African penguins coming to the zoo.

African Penguins May Be On The Verge Of Exctintion In The Wild

Last year, African penguins were moved to the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and are currently listed as a critically endangered species. Unfortunately, over the years, African penguin populations in the wild have dropped so drastically that some believe the species may become extinct in the wild as early 2026.

Fortunately, several places around the world have been able to help populations in captivity thrive and hopefully keep African penguins from completely disappearing. And we're adding Oklahoma to the list.

This year's Waddle and Whirl Gala will help raise the funds needed to create the Sea to Shore habitat for African penguins at the OKC Zoo.

Every year, the gala is one of the most anticipated events that the OKC Zoo hosts. Oklahoma Zoological Society Executive Director Mandy Heaps mentioned that the annual event means more than just any fundraiser in Oklahoma. "Since its inception, the Zoo Gala has become one of our most treasured annual events because it brings together so many people who care deeply about the OKC Zoo, wildlife conservation, and the Oklahoma City community." she said. 

Oklahoma City Zoo Gala Serving As Fundraiser & Celebration

This year, the gala will also help honor three long time community members and OKC Zoo supporters, including the following per the gala press release:

• The late Gene Rainbolt and BancFirst, celebrating a legacy of leadership and community support.
• Claudia Holliman, honoring decades of philanthropy and a steadfast commitment to the OKC Zoo.
• Larry Mathis and Mathis Home, championing and investing in collaborative community partnerships.

Purchase Gala Tickets & Event Expectations

The tickets for seats at the Gala go on sale in April and will be accessible here. While tuxedos are not required, Gala guests are encouraged to attend in black and white attire in honor of the penguins.