WALTZ Into the Wilds presented by Hardesty Family Foundation and The Helmerich Trust

WALTZ is the Tulsa Zoo’s premier annual 21+ fundraising event and stands for “We All Love the Tulsa Zoo.” At WALTZ Into the Wilds presented by Hardesty Family Foundation and The Helmerich Trust, visit a world inspired by the wild beauty of African landscapes, where Diana monkeys call from the canopy and pygmy hippos move quietly through shimmering waters. The spirit of that lush, vibrant landscape comes to life as you sip signature cocktails, taste bites from more than 40 of Tulsa’s top restaurants and dance the night away across three immersive areas designed to be explored at your own pace: The Market, The Trails and The Falls.
When: Friday, September 18, 2026, from 7-10:30 p.m.*
*Patrons are invited to arrive early for a private Welcome Party from 6:30–7 p.m. with an exclusive animal encounter experience for Patrons at the $8,000 level and above. Visit waltzonthewildside.org/become-a-patron to learn more!
Your support of WALTZ Into the Wilds presented by Hardesty Family Foundation and The Helmerich Trust benefits the upcoming William S. Smith African Wilds complex. This new complex will feature enhanced exhibits for our lions, meerkats, African painted dogs, Southern ground hornbills and Diana monkeys. It will also introduce pygmy hippos, vultures and bring the exciting return of zebras to the Tulsa Zoo.
For more information, visit waltzonthewildside.org/