Unwrap the Magic: A Complete Guide to Holiday Events in Downtown OKC
The highly anticipated Downtown In December, presented by Devon Energy, has arrived—bringing three months of festive fun to downtown Oklahoma City! This year, holiday events in downtown OKC are bigger and better than ever, featuring outdoor attractions, live performing arts, holiday shopping, family activities, toasty treats, stunning light displays, and so much more. Whether you’re looking for winter wonderland moments or festive photo ops, Downtown in December offers something for everyone this holiday season.
Keep reading to discover all the exciting events in downtown OKC that you won’t want to miss during the 2024 Downtown in December season!
Downtown in December, presented by Devon, is produced by Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership with generous support from Devon Energy, the Downtown Business Improvement District, and other sponsors and partners.
Celebrate the Magic of the Season at these Downtown OKC Premier Holiday Events
The Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival
Kick off the season at the 23rd Annual Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival, presented by Heartland, on Tuesday, November 12th, 2024, from 5:30-8:00 PM at Mickey Mantle Plaza in Bricktown!
This free, family-friendly event features fun activities like photos with Santa by Inasmuch Foundation, Letters to Santa by Communication Federal Credit Union, face painting, OKC Thunder entertainers, diverse programming, and a life-size snow globe.
Grab snacks, free samples, and bites from local restaurants, plus the main event, the countdown to the lighting of the Christmas tree by Mayor David Holt at 6:00 PM. The tree will shine brightly in Bricktown through New Year’s Day.
Lights On Broadway
Experience the magic of the season at the 9th Annual Lights On Broadway in the historic Automobile Alley! On November 30, December 7, and 14 from 4-7 PM, see the light displays along the street, window decorations, and special promotions at local shops and restaurants.
There’s family-friendly fun for all with live music, balloon art, photos with Santa (in his classic 1929 Mercedes Benz!), and more. Don’t miss this tradition in one of OKC’s most vibrant districts!
Saint’s Santa Run, presented by SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital
Grab your costumes and running shoes for the Saints Santa Run on Saturday, December 7th, 2024! This family-friendly event features a festive 5K Run/Walk, a 1-mile Fun Run, and a free Kids’ Dash.
The start/finish line will be a celebration with face painting, music, food trucks, and complimentary milk and cookies for runners. Don’t forget to dress in your best holiday costume for a chance to win cash prizes in the costume contest!
Santa Paws
Get ready for the return of Merry Midtown’s Santa Paws photo op on Sunday, December 1, from 1-3 PM! Bring your furry friends—dogs and cats alike—for a FREE professional photo with Santa that’s just purr-fect for your holiday card!
Don’t forget to sign up with your email to receive your stunning photos directly in your inbox. Join us for a paw-some day of cheer!
Devon Ice Rink, presented by Devon Energy
The Devon Ice Rink is back for its 13th season at the Myriad Botanical Gardens, open from November 15, 2024 – February 2, 2025.
Skate across 5,500 square feet of real ice, savor seasonal treats, and soak in the magical atmosphere surrounded by twinkling lights.
Don’t miss the Grand Opening on November 16, with performances, public skating, a live DJ, food trucks, and special guest appearances by Anna and Elsa! Extended holiday hours and themed nights make it the perfect winter outing.
Show-Stopping Holiday Decor in Downtown Oklahoma City
Myriad & Bright
The Myriad Botanical Gardens’ Myriad & Bright is the perfect holiday destination in OKC, featuring stunning light displays and decorations throughout the grounds.
You’ll find special seasonal events, including photos with Santa, workshops for all ages, and a visit to the newly remodeled Crystal Bridge Conservatory. With extended hours, it’s a great spot to celebrate the season with family and friends.
‘Tis the Season
From November 28 to December 29, 2024, Scissortail Park comes alive with holiday lights, Santa visits, and special events like the ‘Tis the Season Market & Concert on December 7, Santa Sleigh-In Cinema showing How The Grinch Stole Christmas on December 14, the Menorah Lighting on December 29, and the Light the World Giving Machine which is available daily.
Red Earth Treefest
Experience the beauty and culture of Oklahoma’s Native tribes at the 10th Annual Red Earth Treefest at the Red Earth Art Center.
This free exhibit, located inside BancFirst Tower, showcases Christmas trees decorated with handcrafted ornaments that represent the unique traditions of each Tribal Nation.
The exhibit is open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and visitors can also shop for artisan gifts and ornaments. Don’t miss this celebration of culture and creativity!
Holiday Treats and Festive Drinks in Downtown OKC
Christmas at Katiebug’s
Experience the magic of the season at Katiebug’s Sips & Sweets, where delicious treats and gorgeous photo ops await from November 29th to December 28th!
Drink their signature hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows and indulge in cookies that earned them the title of 2nd Best Cookies in America. From cookie decorating kits to sweet gift boxes, Katiebug’s has all your holiday needs covered.
Visit their cozy winter wonderland patio or find them at the Holiday Pop-Up Shops in Midtown. Katiebug’s is open Wednesday through Saturday, 12 PM – 6 PM.
Miracle
Step into a winter wonderland at Miracle, a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar at Social Capital (517 S. Hudson Ave) from November 19th to December 30th.
With fun decor, expertly crafted holiday cocktails, and a nostalgic atmosphere, it’s a must-visit spot to celebrate the season.
And for the kids, Miracle has hot cocoa, Santa visits, movie nights, and more. Don’t miss this jolly experience—whether you’re naughty or nice!
Sippin’ Santa
Sippin’ Santa brings a tropical twist to downtown OKC at Suite B on 7th in Automobile Alley from November 27th to December 30th. Swap snow for sand and pine trees for palm trees while drinking vibrant cocktails in a festive, island-inspired setting. With playful decor and a whimsical atmosphere, Sippin’ Santa is the go-to spot to celebrate the season with a tropical flair.
Must-See Holiday Performances in Downtown OKC This Season
OKC Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Oklahoma City Ballet presents a reimagined version of the classic Nutcracker, featuring new sets, costumes, choreography, and more.
From December 14th to December 23rd, this beloved tale with exciting new twists at the Civic Center Music Hall
A sensory-friendly performance will be held on December 18th in partnership with AutismOklahoma. Don’t miss this fresh, enchanting take!
OKC Broadway’s Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
The beloved classic, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical is returning to the Civic Center Music Hall from November 6-10, presented by OKC Broadway. Celebrated by The New York Times as “100 times better than any bedtime story.”
With magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations, attendees will be transported to the whimsical world of Whoville, reminding everyone of the true spirit of the season. Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now.
OKC Broadway’s A Magical Cirque Christmas
Get ready for a spectacular outing at A Magical Cirque Christmas, a dazzling variety show filled with awe-inspiring performances for all ages! On November 25th, witness world-class entertainers performing your favorite holiday tunes, creating a magical experience everyone will love. Don’t miss this enchanting celebration of the season brought to you by OKC Broadway!
OKC Philharmonic’s A Very Merry Pops
Join the OKC Philharmonic for a holly jolly extravaganza, A Very Merry Pops, conducted by Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate at the Civic Center Music Hall. Performances are on December 6th at 8 PM and December 7th at 2 PM and 8 PM.
Oklahoma Opry’s Christmas Show
Celebrate the season with the Oklahoma Opry Christmas Show on December 7th, featuring Opry favorites like Owen & Kelcie Pickard, Tanner Massey, and more!
There are two chances to catch the show at 3:30 PM and 7:00 PM at one of Oklahoma City’s longest-running holiday traditions. Bring the whole crew for a night of music, cheer, and unforgettable holiday fun!
Canterbury Voices’ Sing We Now of Christmas
Join Canterbury Voices for an evening of holiday music, Sing We Now of Christmas, on December 8th at 7 PM at the Civic Center Music Hall.
There will be a mix of traditional carols, including O Holy Night and Silent Night, along with the Oratorio de Noël by Saint-Saëns and newer works by Dan Forrest and Shawn Kirchner, performed by the Canterbury Youth Voices Chorale and the OKC Philharmonic.
Don’t miss the chance to join in the fun with a classic sing-along, a special Canterbury tradition.
More Don’t Miss Holiday Events in Downtown OKC
Those aren’t the only holiday events to look forward to this year—check out these exciting happenings to keep the festive spirit alive throughout the season:
November 15 – January 5: OKC Streetcar Free Weekend Rides
November 29 – December 22: Holiday Pop-Up Shops
November 15 – 17: Mistletoe Market
November 16: RIVERSPORT Holiday River Parade
November 29 – December 20: ArtAfloatOKC Showboat Holiday Concerts & Caroling Cruises
November 30: Small Business Saturday
December 7 – 28: Saturdays in December at OKCMOA
December 10: The Melting Pot’s Holiday Your Way Ladies’ Night Out
December 14: Deck the Hall of Fame
December 31: The Melting Pot’s New Year’s Celebration
There’s truly no better place to soak in the magic and nostalgia of the season than right here in Downtown Oklahoma City. With lights, special events, and endless opportunities to make memories, downtown becomes a winter wonderland that’s brimming with cheer.
Whether you’re taking in the dazzling light displays, enjoying a live performance, or sipping hot cocoa while shopping local, there’s a reason to visit every day. Downtown OKC offers something special for everyone this holiday season—come for the celebrations, stay for the memories!
