Now that Thanksgiving is over, the holiday season is in full swing! Oklahoma City has tons of festive events happening this weekend that are ideal for family and friends to come together and spread some cheer.
Chisholm Creek Christmas Village | Dec. 2
Loads of Christmas fun will be at the Chisholm Creek Christmas Village on Take pictures with Christmas characters such as Santa and his (live!) reindeer, Buddy the Elf, Olaf, Elsa and the Grinch — the first 500 visitors to the Santa Station will receive a complimentary plushie. Shop around the vendors at the Christmas market while you listen to the live music. If you haven’t found the perfect Christmas tree yet, you might find the one at the village’s tree stand. This year’s Christmas Village is in partnership with OKC Ballet, which is inviting all guests to take a 25-minute ballet class and enjoy a Rockettes and Sugar Plum performance. Free, 6–9 p.m., Chisholm Creek, OKC.
Passport to Tropical Santa in the Gardens | Dec. 3-4
Travel around the world at the Myriad Gardens and celebrate holiday celebrations including Kwanzaa and Hanukkah, and learn about Christmas traditions from Europe, Mexico, and Australia. The event will include Santa, live music, ornament decorating and face painting. Kids can also board a ride on the Polar Express around the Gardens. $5, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Conservatory, OKC.
Saints Santa Run | Dec. 3
Dashing through … Midtown! The Saints Santa Run is bringing together people of all ages (and pets!) to participate in a festive 5K and costume contest. For a chance to win cash prizes, dress up like Santa or your favorite holiday gear. If running isn’t
your thing, there will be other activities like balloon art, face painting, holiday music and snacks for everyone to enjoy. Come celebrate the season while staying active! Prices vary on race, 8 a.m., 1000 N. Lee Ave., OKC.
‘Tis the Season Market | Dec. 3
Along the promenade of Scissortail Park, you’ll find local businesses and artisans selling potential gifts such as clothing, jewelry, candles, woodwork and gourmet food for your loved ones. There will be lots of shopping and live music that will take place on the Love’s Travel Stops Stage and Great Lawn. Free, 12–7 p.m., Scissortail Park, OKC.
Cowboy Christmas Parade | Dec. 3
Does a Cowboy Santa say “ho ho ho” or “yeehaw”? Find out at the Stockyards City annual Cowboy Christmas Parade! Everything from marching bands to antique cars to the famous Cowboy Santa will take part in the parade. Once the parade is over, take a picture with Cowboy Santa, watch the Oklahoma Opry performers and shop at the locally owned stores. Free, 10 a.m., Stockyards City, OKC.
Sleigh Bells Market OKC | Dec. 4
For the sixth year, the Sleigh Bells Market will return to both floors of the OKC Farmers Public Market. You’ll find tons of local vendors for a day full of vintage and handmade shopping. Stock up on the wrapping paper for the jewelry, Christmas items, clothing boutiques and more offered. Free, 12–5 p.m., Oklahoma City Farmers Public Market, 311 S. Klein Ave., OKC.
The Sugar Plum Fairy | Dec. 3-18
The Oklahoma’s Children Theatre is presenting The Sugar Plum Fairy, a sweet show with a special message about giving everyone a chance to shine. All ages will enjoy this unique holiday performance. $9 for children and $11 for adults, Oklahoma Children’s Theatre, 3000 General Pershing Blvd., OKC.
Light the Night at Rose State College | Dec. 1
Join Rose State College in its annual holiday lighting celebration. The family-friendly event will include DIY ornaments, letters to Santa, caroling and hot cocoa. You’ll want to get there early because the first 200 people will receive a hot cocoa mug. Free, 5:15–8 p.m., Rose State College Student Union & Campus Mall, 6420 SE 15th St., Midwest City.
Safari Lights | Dec. 1 – Jan. 1
The Oklahoma City Zoo’s Safari Lights are roaring back for another holiday season! You can walk or drive-thru the showcase of wildlife-themed light sculptures, animated light displays, festive treats and visits from Santa. The festive adventure is meant for all ages to enjoy. $15 per person (walk through) or $65 per vehicle (drive-thru), 5:30–11 p.m.; Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden, OKC.
Devon Ice Rink | Dec. 1 – Jan. 29
The yearly Devon Ice Rink is ushering in the holiday season. Skate on 5,500 square feet of ice surrounded by the fall trees and city skyline. After you finish circling under the magical lights, warm up with some seasonal food and beverages. $14 (skate rental) or $9 (no skate rental), 3–11 p.m., Myriad Botanical Gardens, OKC.
Lyric’s A Christmas Carol | Dec. 1-23
The Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma’s rendition of the holiday classic is returning for its 12th year. The immersive outdoor show at the Harn Homestead will allow the audience to walk from scene to scene — a great way for everyone to feel like a part of the holiday spirit. $37 for children and $62 for adults, times vary, 1721 N. Lincoln Blvd., OKC.
The Polar Express | Dec. 2-27
All aboard! Ride the Polar Express to the North Pole at the Oklahoma Railway Museum. Passengers will get the movie experience of getting your ticket, drinking hot cocoa and meeting Santa! Sing and dance along the ride just as in the film, and receive Santa’s first gift of Christmas: a silver sleigh bell. Times and prices vary, 3400 NE Grand Blvd., OKC.
Red Earth TreeFest | Dec. 1-30
Oklahoma’s Native Nations are celebrating Christmas together at the Red Earth TreeFest. Each participating tribe has decorated its own tree with handmade ornaments. Come explore the many Native cultures that represent Oklahoma inside the downtown BancFirst Tower. Free, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Red Earth Art Center, 100 N Broadway Ave., OKC.
Union Station and Illumination and Holiday Lights | Dec. 1 – Jan. 1
Right in the heart of Oklahoma City, you can find a festive, elaborate and glowing light show at Scissortail Park. As you stroll through, you’ll find various light displays, including a 40-foot Christmas tree and a giant menorah. Also, this year will feature a special recording of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Mayor David Holt at the musical Union Station lights display. Free, 6–10 p.m., Scissortail Park, OKC.
Holiday Pop-Up Shops | Dec. 2-18
The local Holiday Pop-Up Shops are back for another year in downtown OKC. The vendors are small Oklahoma businesses, allowing shoppers to find unique gifts for friends and family while supporting the community. Free; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Downtown OKC.
Caroling Cruises | Dec. 1-23
Looking for a unique holiday experience this year? ArtAfloatOKC is presenting Caroling Cruises, a 45-minute musical excursion featuring local artists’ festive performances. All ages can enjoy a ride on a twinkling boat while singing along to the cheerful tunes. $23; Thursdays and Fridays, 6:30 p.m.; Bricktown Canal, OKC.
