Family-Friendly Holiday Events in OKC - 405 Magazine

Family-Friendly Holiday Events in OKC

From the Oklahoma City Ballet's The Nutcracker to A Territorial Christmas Celebration in Guthrie, start a new family tradition.

Oklahoma City Ballet’s traditional version of The Nutcracker

Oklahoma City Ballet’s traditional version of The Nutcracker | Courtesy of Oklahoma City Ballet

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness and creating cherished memories with loved ones. This year, why not start a new tradition that will continue bringing warmth and happiness to your holidays for years to come? Oklahoma offers a delightful array of festive activities and events that can help you make your holiday season even more special. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Oklahoma City and Tulsa Ballets Present The Nutcracker

From Dec. 8-17, the Oklahoma City Ballet invites you to experience the magic of The Nutcracker. Artistic Director Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye’s choreography and Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score will transport you to a world of wonder. The ballet is a traditional holiday favorite, which features students from the OKC Ballet Yvonne Chouteau School, live music from Canterbury Youth Voices and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.

For families with sensory sensitivities, a special performance in partnership with Autism Oklahoma takes place on Dec. 18, including adjusted lighting, lower sound levels and a designated safe area within the lobby.

Oklahoma City Philharmonic Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate conducting the Christmas concert.
Oklahoma City Philharmonic Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate conducting the Christmas concert | Photo by Jana Carson, OKC Philharmonic

OKC Philharmonic’s Holly Jolly Extravaganza

Kick off the holiday season in style with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic’s all-new Holly Jolly Extravaganza Dec. 1-2. Led by Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate, and accompanied by Grammy winners Take 6 and Sandi Patty, the Phil performs beloved holiday favorites that will have you in the festive spirit. This is the perfect event to share with family that will have you decking the halls.

Yukon’s Christmas in the Park

Experience a festive tradition that spans over 100 acres of Christmas revelry. The stunning light display weaves through three interconnecting parks, creating a magical winter paradise. Take a ride on the Santa Express and explore the illuminated wonderland. Then, enjoy walking trails adorned with millions of multi-colored lights set to music. 

Chickasha’s Festival of Light

Make the journey south from Oklahoma City to Chickasha and experience the Festival of Light, named one of the top 10 light displays in the state by Travel Oklahoma. With 3.5 million shimmering lights, including an illuminated 172-foot Christmas tree, this celebration of holiday cheer is truly spectacular. 

While you’re in town, be sure to relive childhood memories and visit the famous replica leg lamp from A Christmas Story. The towering 50-foot lamp looms over the heart of Chickasha, evoking chuckles along with a sense of nostalgia.

Festive room with christmas lights, stockings, and a christmas tree
Seasonal decor at North Pole City | Courtesy of the 405 Archive

North Pole City

Celebrate the magic of Christmas at North Pole City, Oklahoma’s largest Christmas store. Discover a wide array of festive decorations, from artificial trees and lights to collectibles. It is a unique experience with a cheerfully overwhelming effect on the senses. 

A Territorial Christmas Celebration in Guthrie

Don’t miss A Territorial Christmas Celebration in Guthrie for a taste of historical authenticity and holiday festivity. This annual tradition offers a costumed Christmas parade, Victorian home tours and Victorian-era costumed re-enactors, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s a family-friendly getaway that combines tradition with a touch of nostalgia.

Group of actors surrounding a table at a production of the Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol cast | Courtesy of the Lyric Theatre and The 405 Archive

Lyric’s A Christmas Carol

Lyric’s A Christmas Carol is a magical journey with Ebeneezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. This tradition features stunning sets, sparkling costumes and beloved characters, bringing your entire family into the holiday spirit. As featured by The New York Times and BBC News, it’s a heartwarming experience that can become a cherished part of your holiday season.

Looking for more things to do? Check out Myriad Botanical Gardens Reopens Its Iconic Crystal Bridge