The 21st season of Downtown in December is upon us! From now through January 2023, a curated collection of holiday events, activities and attractions will fill downtown Oklahoma City with fun for all ages. Some have become cherished Oklahoma City traditions, while others are brand new. In total, more than 30 events and attractions are slated, all but guaranteeing a jolly holiday season for all.
We’ve rounded up a handful of highlights, and you can find a full schedule here.
Lights on Broadway
Historic Automobile Alley, bedecked in its holiday-lights finery, is the spot you’ll want to be for two open house events, Dec. 3 and 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. Shops and restaurants will offer special promotions, seasonal activities and décor, photos with Santa Claus, sidewalk entertainment and much more.
Holiday Pop-Up Shops
Each weekend from Nov. 25 – Dec. 18, the Holiday Pop-Ups feature dozens of local shops at the corner of NW 10th & Hudson. You’re guaranteed to find the perfect special something for everyone on your list – including you! You can also enjoy treats (and beer) from The Big Friendly Brewery and Katiebug’s Sips & Sweets, choose a Christmas tree at the Bishop John Carroll tree lot, meet Santa, pick up some wrapping paper from Curbside Chronicle and more.
The Devon Ice Rink
Now in its 11th year, the Devon Ice Rink is back. Twirl your way across 5,500 square feet of real ice, then take a break and enjoy seasonal snacks and drinks or stroll through the gardens and newly reopened Crystal Bridge. Admission is $14 and includes skate rentals. Got your own skates? Admission’s just $9.
Winter Glow at Riversport
Zip down to the Boathouse District to try your hand at curling and skating on the District’s new synthetic ice surfaces, but that’s not all. There are five covered climbing experiences and plenty of refreshments, including toasty hot chocolate, at the Big Water Grill. Winter Glow is open Nov. 25 - Dec. 30. Check the website for days, hours and pricing.
Lyric’s A Christmas Carol
It’s an outdoor performance at Harn Homestead, so be sure to bundle up! Let the cast whisk you away, following Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption. Audience members will be guided from scene to scene through a magical holiday village nestled in the heart of OKC. The show runs Nov. 16 – Dec. 23.
Santa Paws Photo Op
Grab your camera (or phone), your pup and your holiday finery and get your tail to the Midtown Bocce Court for free photos with Santa for your fur babies. A jolly elf will be on hand to snap photos for you.
SSM Health Saints Santa Run
Saturday, Dec. 3 is the big day! Lace up your running shoes and glue on your Santa beards. This family-friendly holiday run is designed for all ages and pets are welcome. Of course, there’s a costume contest with cash prizes in addition to the 5K walk/run, 1-mile fun run and free Kids’ Dash. Registration Is open through race day.
Free OKC Streetcar Weekend Rides
Park your sled and let the OKC Streetcars do the driving while you shop local and enjoy all the fun during Downtown in December! Enjoy complimentary fares on Fridays (6 a.m. – 2 a.m.), Saturdays (7 a.m. – 2 a.m.) and Sundays (7 a.m. – 10 p.m.) Nov. 18 through Jan. 1. Hours on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve may vary so check the schedule.
OKC Ballet’s The Nutcracker
This fabulous holiday tradition will delight you with all-new choreography this season by Artistic Director Ryan Jolicoeur as this much- beloved, extravagant ballet takes the stage. This holiday treat will include students from the OKC Ballet Yvonne Chouteau School, plus live music from Canterbury Voices and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. Performances are Dec. 10-11 and Dec. 15-18.
Find more ways to celebrate the holidays with our full round up of events and happenings around the city.
