OKC Zoo Opens During Winter Hours Due To Warm Winter Weather

Despite the fact that we're more than halfway through December, Oklahoma has enjoyed some incredibly fair weather for the meteorological winter. While we've had a handful of days below freezing, most days have been sunny and somewhat warm for the season.

Usually, the OKC Zoo has their animals tucked away for the winter time right about now. However, with a forecast of 70 degrees just days before Christmas, they've decided to open their exihibits to the public and take advantage of the good weather.

Don't worry, there are still holiday celebrations happening that families can still participate in while visiting on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

Several young born at OKC Zoo in 2025 will be out and about on December 23.

This year, the OKC Zoo has had over eight animal births, including the most recent zebra foal, Lyra. During the winter, the youngsters are usually kept indoors if the weather falls below a certain temperature, or if conditions aren't safe for them to be outside.

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However, with the spring-like temperatures coming through next week, the OKC Zoo staff think that this will be a perfect chance to see these babies for the holiday season. As Dr. Dwight Lawton, CEO of the OKC Zoo, said:

"The holidays are a time for making memories with friends and family, and that includes our animal family. The unseasonably warm weather makes this a great chance to get out of the house and enjoy the wild world around us."

All of the immersive attractions at the OKC Zoo will be open, including the Oklahoma Trails, Sanctuary Asia, and Expedition Africa. They, of course, will also have their holiday light display experience, Safari Lights, open for everyone to enjoy.

Specific hours for unseasonably warm weather opening day before Christmas.

The OKC Zoo will open at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, and remain open for most of the day until 4:30 p.m. The last entry of the day will be allowed at 3:30 p.m. Unfortunately, the Zoo will be closed both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The Safari Lights experience runs each evening from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., with the last check in at 10 p.m. Guests will be able to enjoy this experience after the new year, as well, as the last day of the Safari Lights will be January 4, 2026.

For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit okczoo.org.

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