Oklahoma City Zoo’s Iconic Safari Lights Christmas Experience Is Returning!

Besides the annual Haunt the Zoo event, the Safari Lights at the Oklahoma City Zoo is easily one of the most attended celebrations every year. They do a fantastic job of transforming just your normal zoo into an incredibly well-lit, magical wonderland.

You might be thinking, "We're already talking about Christmas? We haven't even made it to Halloween yet!"

But, to be fair, the Safari Lights start less than a month away, on Thursday, November 15, and run until January 4, 2026. If you want to plan for the visit, now is the time to do it. Here's all you need to get started.

What is the Safari Lights experience?

The Safari Lights at the OKC Zoo is a drive-thru and walk-thru Christmas light experience. This year, they're adding new and better activities and attractions to make everything even more memorable for families.

"“Every year, we look at ways to go bigger and brighter than the year before,” said OKC Zoo events manager Jenna Dodson. “We’ve added plenty of new options to make this event even more memorable for guests, many of whom have been returning annually since we began."

Numerous families have made the Safari Lights a Christmas tradition in Oklahoma, so visitors can still expect to see some of their favorite displays. But this year, come a little earlier so you have time to enjoy everything they've added to the schedule.

What are the new additions to the Safari Lights this year?

Usually, when going to see the Christmas lights, it's meant to be a family activity. But this year, the OKC Zoo wanted to offer another "Adults Only" night. On Thursday, November 20, they will host the Mistletoe Mingle for guests 21 and older.

Come prepared for some spiked holiday drinks, special seasonal treats, karaoke, and surprise visits from holiday characters.

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Another special experience they're offering this year at Safari Lights is the VIP Santa "Sleigh" rides, where guests are chauffeured through the lights in their own fully decorated golf cart, complete with Christmas decorations. They're even tossing in warm blankets and hot cocoa to keep you warm on your ride.

A few additional events they're planning are:

• Rent an Igloo capable of accomodating up to 8 people.
• Pictures with Santa on November 15-16, 22-30, December 4-7, 11-14, and 18-24.

Lastly, they're bringing back their sensory-friendly fun night on Thursday, December 4 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There are less flashing lights, less crowds, and an even quieter atmosphere, perfect for those who are easily over stimulated.

@okcfoodiefinds The OKC Zoo Safari Lights is one of our favorite holiday light displays so far! 🎄🐅✨ The light display is open nightly NOW through January 1st from 5:30 - 11:00 p.m. Guests can drive-thru AND walk-thru a winter wonderland of wildlife and holiday themed light sculptures, interactive light displays, festive treats, and photo opportunities all inside the OKC Zoo! Do you prefer classic white lights or colorful displays? Drop a 🌟 or 🎄 in the comments to let us know! Are you planning to visit any holiday light displays this season? Share your favorite spots below! 🎅🏻 . . . . #holidayactivities #christmasactivities #christmasdecorations #christmaslights #lightdisplay #okc #okcfoodie #okcblogger #oklahoma #okczoo #zoo #festive #hotchocolate #christmasevents #visitokc #travelok #lightshow #thingstodoinokc ♬ Winter Wonderland - Bing Crosby & London Symphony Orchestra

To get tickets for either the drive-thru or walk-thru experience, click here.