The Tulsa Zoo, which rarely closes, shuts its doors on the third Friday in June. On that day, the staff prepares for its annual “WALTZ on the Wild Side” fundraiser. During the rest of the year, guests can take advantage of exhibits that have been made possible by the money raised during that event, including the Chimpanzee Connection, Elephant Encounter, Penguin Exhibit, Children’s Zoo and the Helmerich Sea Lion Cove.

The Tulsa Zoo has committed itself to enlightening guests and protecting species from around the globe. The zoo cares for African animals such as the Aldabra tortoises, Asian animals including snow leopards, and animals native to the tropical rainforest of Central and South America. In addition to the “WALTZ on the Wild Side” fundraiser, the Tulsa Zoo also hosts events including the 5K and 10K Zoo Run, and the “HallowZOOeen” celebration, in which animals get to dress up and ask each other for candy.