MetroFamily Magazine November December 2024

MetroFamily Magazine. OKC Family Fun & Resources. Local events calendar.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Shop Local Gift unique finds and memorable experiences Glow Up Discover dazzling new light displays

Do you need to experience the hope, peace, and light Jesus offers? Come celebrate the wonder of Christmas at a Crossings Candlelight service! This season, we’re reminded that no matter our circumstances, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). Come rejoice in the gift of Jesus, the Light of the World, and experience the true peace and hope only he can give! AT CROSSINGS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 23 & 24

HOPE

PEACE

LIGHT

CROSSINGS.CHURCH/CHRISTMAS To view service times and locations, listen to Christmas music, explore holiday events available for the whole family, and more visit

CROSSINGS OKC Sunday Schedule • 8:30, 9:30 & 11AM 14600 N Portland Ave, OKC, OK 73134 CROSSINGS COMMUNITY CENTER Sunday Schedule • 11AM 10255 N Pennsylvania Ave, OKC, OK 73120

CROSSINGS EDMOND Sunday Schedule • 9:30 & 11AM 1500 W Covell Rd, Edmond, OK 73003 CROSSINGS MAYFAIR Sunday Schedule • 9:30 & 11AM 2340 NW 50th St, OKC, OK 73112 CROSSINGS EDMOND Sunday Schedule • 9:30 & 11AM 1500 W Covell Rd, Edmond, OK 73003 •

CROSSINGS.CHURCH

Fall in love with your library.

With 19 locations in Oklahoma County, the Metropolitan Library System has something for everyone this Fall. • Roar into Dinovember - Join our dinosaur-themed activities and discover the wonders of the prehistoric world. • Lots for the Littles – Delightful sessions designed to spark curiosity and joy for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. • Take Home the Holidays - Pick up a take- home kit for festive, hands-on fun wherever you are. • Children Reading to Dogs - Boost young readers’ confidence in a cozy, judgment-free environment. • Learn a New Language - Access Mango Languages and sound like a local on your next exotic vacation. • Get Crafty - With over 1,000 instructional videos, Creativebug has your next DIY project waiting. • Move with Tai Chi - Improve your balance, focus, and strength.

metrolibrary.org (405) 231-8650

Scan the QR Code to find these events and more!

Contents

Features 14 METROFAMILY’S 2025 COVER KIDS

ON THE COVER Mia & Millie are the winners of our 2024 Cover Kids contest in the siblings category. Mia is an eighth grader who loves animals, baking, playing board games and boba tea. Millie is in the third grade and loves to swim, go to the lake, catch critters, eat Oreos and make her family laugh. Both girls play soccer year round. They are the daughters of Katie and Nick, and their family’s favorite place to hang out is Scissortail Park. PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY AT THE HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOPS IN MIDTOWN

Introducing the winners of our annual search 20 SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER How to support Oklahoma’s pediatric rehabilitation hospital 24 SHOP LOCAL OKC store owners share favorite holiday traditions 50 FACES & PLACES

Meet the community leaders behind local businesses and organizations

Departments 6 CONNECT WITH METROFAMILY

Take advantage of our top seasonal resources

10 NEW & NOW

7 local happenings for families LOCAL FAMILY FUN Discover 4 dazzling light displays

22 MOM TALK

4 ways to support local businesses this holiday season

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ENCHANT CHRISTMAS

26 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Find holiday magic at local

PHOTO BY DEBBIE MURNAN

festivals, productions and family fun activities EXPLORING BEYOND OKLAHOMA San Antonio shines bright with holiday family fun

62 LAST LOOK

Ways to give back as a family

4 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024

Letter from the Editor

A s we approach the holiday season, my heart is filled with joy and gratitude … but also with a profound sense of loss. You may recall that in MetroFamily’s 2023 holiday issue, we shared the story of Kenny Blair, known to many as Santa Blair. Before even meeting him in person during last year’s Oklahoma City tree lighting ceremony in Bricktown, my middle son was convinced he was the real Santa because of his beautifully intricate suits — and focus on serving others. Like he has with so many other children in our community, Santa Blair spent time intentionally chatting with my kids, making their eyes light up with Christmas magic. And then in true Santa Blair style, he also danced The Wobble with the hundreds in attendance. Santa Blair passed away earlier this year, leaving what feels like a hole in the holiday season. For many in the community, me included, he embodied the true spirit of Christmas, bringing light, laughter and a sense of belonging to children and families across Oklahoma — and the world. Santa Blair was a pillar of our community: an educator, a mentor and a friend. His vibrant suits and infectious joy set him apart — but it was his unwavering commitment to serving those in need that made him an icon. Whether he was visiting children in hospitals or providing warmth to families experiencing homelessness, Santa Blair exemplified the selfless spirit of giving. His dedication to representation ensured every child could see themselves in Santa, fostering a sense of hope and inclusion. I didn’t know Santa Blair well, but through just a few conversations, I gained a beautiful sense of the real meaning of the season. As I reflect on his legacy, I feel called to emulate his kindness and generosity. Will you join me? Consider supporting local organizations that serve children and families in need, or simply reach out to a neighbor who could use a little extra love this season.

2024

Publisher Sarah Taylor Editorial & Marketing Director Erin Page Digital Editor Lindsay Cuomo Art Director Stacy Noakes Assistant Editor Emiley Bainbridge Account Executive Dana Price Events Director Casey Shupe Operations Director Morgan Harris Content & Account Specialist Renee Filippo Contributing Writers Taylor Bollinger Rebecca Fast Debbie Murnan Christina Mushi-Brunt Contributing Photographer Bridget Pipkin Contact us Mailing address: 6608 N. Western Ave., #458 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 Phone: 405-601-2081 tips@metrofamilymagazine.com metrofamilymagazine.com

Let’s make this season meaningful, not just for ourselves, but for others. May your holidays be filled with love, laughter and the warmth of community.

MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright 2024 by MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

With heartfelt wishes,

Erin Page Editorial Director

Proud member of

Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Midwest City Chamber of Commerce

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 5

Connect with MetroFamily

Your Parenting Playbook for OKC in November & December O ur primary goal at MetroFamily is to make life easier for local parents.

1 Join us at Geekapalooza The biggest STEAM Festival of the year is here! Geekapalooza is Saturday, Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rose State College. The festival brings families together to experience how science, technology, engineering, art and math are fun for all ages. Through hands-on projects and expo booths hosted by local leaders, attendees learn about robotics, the science of flight, coding and geoscience. Plus, enjoy drones, geode smashing, a portable planetarium, food trucks and a scavenger hunt contest with grand prizes! Tickets are just $5 per child when you register in advance, or $8 at the door. Adults and kids under 2 are free. Register now and save! 

Through our bi-monthly magazines, robust website, blogs by local parents and exciting events and contests, we seek to tame parent overwhelm and infuse joy into your families. The best way to get all the family fun and parenting resources from MetroFamily is to sign up for our FREE e-newsletter . You’ll receive bite-sized timely news, top weekend events, info on our

contests to win fabulous prizes, seasonal guides and

real-life parenting tips straight to your email inbox. Sign up at metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribe.  Check out these 5 opportunities to learn, have fun and take advantage of local resources from MetroFamily in November and December.

6 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024

Commemorate Native Heritage Month

From festivals and special events to history curriculum and resources, find opportunities to celebrate your own Native heritage or learn about Native culture during November and beyond at metrofamilymagazine.com/ native-heritage-month.

PHOTO BY FOTO ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Arcadia Lake annual eagle watch

Friday-Sunday January 3, 4, 5 Any time between 8am-4pm Dress warm and bring your binoculars. Begin at the Arcadia Lake Park Oice, 9000 E 2nd Street (located approx. 3½ miles east of I-35 on Route 66) to receive information about where the Eagles can be found. The Park oice will have a raptor wingspan display, videos, and other great Eagle info. $ 5 per vehicle (half-price park entry) For more info, call (405) 216-7470

We believe in the power of play.

Tues-Sat 9 am - 4 pm, Sun 1 pm - 5 pm 405-382-0950

1714 W Wrangler Blvd, Seminole, OK Jasminemoran.com

O R

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 7

Connect with MetroFamily

Your holidays just got brighter — because MetroFamily’s Ultimate Holiday Giveaway is back! Enter for a chance to win one of three prize packages from our partners, with prizes like: • 2-night stay at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas, plus tickets to ICE 3 Enter our Ultimate Holiday Giveaway

• The Ultimate Ozark Mountain Christmas vacation in Branson, Mo., including 3-night stay at Thousand Hills Resort , 4 passes to Silver Dollar City , 4 tickets to Polar Express FlyRide at Beyond the Lens and 4 tickets to the Titanic Museum Attraction • 2-night stay at OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark in OKC • Tickets to the Heartland Flyer Christmas train, Lyric Theatre, North Pole Adventure and Andy’s Altitude • Family memberships to Science Museum Oklahoma and Myriad Gardens • Gifts like a VOYA XT Stroller Wagon, Radio Flyer Ultimate Go Kart, Peg Perego Polaris and Radio Flyer Kid’s Bike Plus more! Enter daily Dec. 1-12 at metrofamilymagazine.com/contests. 

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8 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024

Plan festive family fun

Get our magazines delivered

For just $25 annually, become a MetroFamily Insider and receive a mailed subscription to MetroFamily Magazine, free tickets to MetroFamily events and other special offers. An Insiders subscription also makes a great gift for the parents,

Get in the holiday spirit! Find dazzling local light displays, cold weather fun, cultural celebrations, Christmas tree farms — and all the places you can take a photo with Santa in OKC at metrofamilymagazine. com/winter.

grandparents and caretakers in your life! Join today at metrofamilymagazine.com/insider.

CONFIDENCE GROWS HERE

SUMMER 2025 REGISTRATION OPEN campclassen.org

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 9

New & Now

MARISSA RAGLIN, TOGETHER , 2024M 12X12 FOUND IMAGE, INK, OIL STICK AND GESSO.

Community Buzz 7 newsworthy happenings for families BY EMILEY BAINBRIDGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Community hub coming to Edmond

Art exhibit explores motherhood The Oklahoma Hall of Fame is featuring local mom and artist Marissa Raglin’s work “Impression” through Dec. 19. Raglin’s mixed-media work explores how a mother’s complex role is both unique and universal. The exhibition invites visitors to consider themes of community, solitude and intentional perseverance. Raglin’s collages create a rich demonstration of maternal love and care, while prompting questions about the duality of motherhood as both personal and communal. As a bonus, this exhibition features a collaboration with four other accomplished Oklahoma artists who are also mothers. Sunbeam expands support to more children and families Sunbeam Family Services has been awarded a $3.2 million annual competitive federal grant from the Office of Head Start. This allows the nonprofit to expand their Early Head Start, Head Start and home visitation services to more than 100 additional children from birth to age 4. Sunbeam provides services to more than 700 children each year, which includes wraparound family support like mental health services, individualized family case management, parenting classes, skill-building workshops and connections to community partners.

The City of Edmond, in partnership with the Metropolitan Library System and the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, is building a $31.5 million library and YMCA facility. Located along 15th Street just east of I-35, the 71,600-square-foot facility will be a multigenerational community space with programs and activities for all ages. It’s scheduled to open in early 2026.

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Citizens Caring for Children celebrates 40 years

Citizens Caring for Children is celebrating their 40th anniversary of serving the needs of Oklahoma children in foster care. The organization meets the needs of more than 1,800 children each year through services and programs like the Resource Center, Mobile Foster Futures program, Back2School and Joy4Kids. They provide clothing, personal hygiene items, resources and educational support. To learn about how you can deliver Christmas magic to Oklahoma’s foster kids visit cccokc.org. Not Your Average Joe expands in Moore Not Your Average Joe is a local nonprofit organization that employs more than 150 students and adults with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities in coffee-shop environments. The organization raised over $40,000 at their Not Your Average Fundraiser (Pickleball Edition) this summer. That funding will be combined with $228,000 raised by Moore Public Schools during the 2023-2024 school year to help fund opening a new location in Moore.

TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. WE MAKE IT EASY

At United Way of Central Oklahoma, we’re proud to partner with 68 local nonprofit Partner Agencies and support over 137 programs providing vital services to our community. To continue our important mission, we rely on the generosity of our community. One donation gives unlimited hope to Oklahomans who are overcoming life’s most difficult challenges.

PLEASE GIVE AT UNITEDWAYOKC.ORG

United Way of Central Oklahoma

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 11

New & Now

Sisu Youth Services celebrates 10 years Local nonprofit Sisu Youth Services celebrates a decade of supporting youth in November. Sisu is a low-barrier, identity-affirming space where unhoused, transition-age youth find shelter and support. Through their overnight emergency shelter for youth ages 15 to 22 who are experiencing homelessness, Drop-In Center that connects youth to resources, housing support,

case management services and life skills and education programs, Sisu helps young people pursue the lives they want. Community members can join a 10-year anniversary celebration on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. at The Yale Theater in Oklahoma City. Tickets are $60 and proceeds benefit Sisu’s mission. Find out more about the event, plus how you can help make the holidays special for the youth served by Sisu, at sisuyouth.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12 5:30 8:00PM LIGHTING AT 6PM BRICKTOWN MICKEY MANTLE PLAZA

FREE & OPEN TO EVERYONE

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New resort & waterpark to open in April 2025 The OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark is set to become a premier attraction in Oklahoma City when it opens in April 2025. Located next to First Americans Museum in the Horizons District, this Chickasaw Nation project will feature an expansive indoor waterpark, a 404-room hotel and diverse dining options. With a focus on family-friendly fun and cultural experiences, OKANA aims to create lasting memories for visitors. Advanced reservations are open beginning in April 2025, starting at $149 per night.

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Call Rebecca Skarky at 405-524-0631, Ext. 123 for a private tour! 600 NW 44 STREET, OKC | WESTMINSTERSCHOOL.ORG

7638 N. Western, OKC • 405-848-1415 @learningtree.okc • learningtreeokc.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 13

The Oklahoma City metro is not short on kids with dazzling smiles, bright personalities and kind hearts! We loved meeting each and every child who participated in our 2025 Cover Kids Search contest. After the registration period, our readers and fans voted on their favorite Cover Kid hopefuls in each age category, selecting our finalists who were then interviewed by a panel of local community leaders. Thank you to everyone who entered and voted! Announcing MetroFamily’s 2025 Cover Kids! BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED.

Marly Marly is the winner of our 2025 Cover Kids Search in the 6-7 age category. This creative 7-year-old is in second grade, where she enjoys math and reading. Aspiring to be an artist, Marly hosts “art sales” featuring her creations from weekly classes. She also delights in swimming, outdoor playdates and conquering obstacle courses. Marly

Ruby Ruby is the winner of our 2025 Cover Kids Search in the 4-5 age category. She will turn 5 years old in December, and she attends PreK in Oklahoma City. She loves dancing ballet and tap, tumbling at Metro Gymnastics and advancing her swimming skills. Ruby loves all animals, but she really has a soft spot for farm animals. Ruby also enjoys reading, completing puzzles, learning Spanish, and snacking on cotton candy grapes, tomatoes and cucumbers. Ruby is the daughter of Mary and Jason, and together they enjoy visiting Scissortail Park, especially the Farmers Market on Saturdays, attending Second Saturdays at Oklahoma Contemporary and worshiping at People’s Church.

is always down to try new foods, and her favorites include sticky rice, crispy rice salad and beef jerky. She loves helping at her family’s restaurants and hosting dinner parties, especially during holidays. Marly is the daughter of Rachel and Jeff and big sister of Ronin, to whom she enjoys reading every night. The family enjoys exploring events in the Plaza District.

Brayden Brayden is the winner of our 2025 Cover Kids Search in the 8-9 age category. He is 9 years old and attends third grade in Edmond, where he enjoys taking advanced math. Brayden practices karate at Christian Karate Academy, and he will earn his black belt in fall 2025. A member of the leadership and demo team, he has performed at various events, including

Christopher Christopher is the winner of our 2025 Cover Kids Search in the 10-12 age category. He is 11 years old and in the fifth grade in Yukon. Christopher loves eating bean burritos and jamming to Fall Out Boy and Wanda Jackson — whom he had the pleasure of meeting! He enjoys playing with his dachshund, Beans, going on road trips and tackling escape rooms. Christopher is an actor with several films under his belt. He’s a fan of hiking, telling jokes, playing Minecraft and Fortnite and starting Nerf gun wars. Christopher is the son of Erin, and together they enjoy hunting for rose rocks at Lake Stanley Draper and going to Scissortail Park.

OU and UCO games. Brayden enjoys hip hop dance classes, swimming and playing outside with friends. He loves reading, especially the Dog Man series. Brayden is the son of Renee and Robert and younger brother of Zola. Brayden’s favorite family outings are to Main Event and the OKC Zoo.

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Tabitha, Taylor & Taliyah Tabitha, Taylor & Taliyah are the winners of our 2025 Cover Kids Search in the sibling category. Tabi is 9 years old and in the third grade, Taylor is 6 and in first grade, and Taliyah is 4 and in PreK. Tabi loves coding, playing the piano, playing basketball and conducting science experiments. She’s an artist and singer with a compassionate nature. Taylor has an adventurous spirit and enjoys art, cooking, gymnastics and basketball. Her excitement for life is contagious, and she expresses gratitude even for little things. Taliyah is a budding gymnast who also likes to fix things with her toolset and create unique art. She is fun-loving and wise beyond her years. The girls are the daughters of Tania and Dwight, and together they enjoy exploring local parks, going to the library and visiting the OKC Zoo and Science Museum Oklahoma.

Watch for MetroFamily’s 2026 Cover Kids Search beginning in mid-July 2025.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 15

Local Family Fun

4 Immersive Holiday Experiences in OKC BY LINDSAY CUOMO & ERIN PAGE. PHOTOS PROVIDED.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT OKC

T he holiday season is here, and we are ready to celebrate with dazzling drive-thru holiday lights, walkable winter wonderlands and so much more! Oklahoma City is bustling with must-see attractions and can’t-miss events that are sure to light up your family’s holiday spirit. Whether you’re seeking classic Christmas nostalgia, an illuminated wild adventure or unforgettable holiday celebrations of our city, these four immersive holiday experiences offer magical memories for the whole family to enjoy.

THE OKLAHOMA CITY TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY HEARTLAND ON NOV. 12 KICKS OFF THE CITY’S HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS. PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DOWNTOWN OKLAHOMA CITY PARTNERSHIP.

Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival presented by Heartland Nov. 12

Jingle down to Bricktown to experience a 100 percent chance of snow on the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 12! Kick off the holiday season at Downtown OKC’s annual Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival presented by Heartland. The event is free to enjoy and open to everyone in the community. With appearances by Santa Claus, a diverse line up of holiday performances, free treats from Bricktown businesses, the countdown to the lighting of the Christmas tree by OKC Mayor David Holt and, yes, even SNOW, this beloved event lights up the night — and the holiday magic in the hearts of attendees. Vibrant dance and musical performances by local artists and groups like Jabee Williams, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, RACE Dance

Collective and more encourage attendees to groove and sing along. Children can write letters to Santa and decorate holiday-themed postcards, plus enjoy face painting, games and activities. In addition to free food and drink provided by Bricktown businesses, Junction Coffee will be on hand selling coffee and hot cocoa. The party begins at 5:30 p.m., and the fun lasts through 8 p.m. With the help of local kids, Mayor Holt will count down and light the Bricktown Christmas Tree during the event. The tree will shine holiday cheer through Christmas Day. Learn more at downtownindecember.com/ tree-lighting.

SPONSORED BY

20 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024

SISTERS ZOEY AND CALLIE MADE REMARKABLE RECOVERIES AT BETHANY CHILDREN’S.

BETHANY CHILDREN’S PATIENT LEVI RECEIVES A SPECIAL VISIT FROM FORMER OU FOOTBALL COACH BOB STOOPS.

The incredible care and innovation happening at Bethany Children’s are made possible, in part, thanks to the community’s support. Zoey and Callie are two young sisters who nearly drowned in a family pool in Edmond earlier this year. After rehabilitating at Bethany Children’s, both girls made remarkable recoveries in just over three weeks, a testament to the hospital staff’s expertise and the joy-filled environment that fosters healing. Another patient, Levi Reed, suffered a brain injury. During his five- month stay at Bethany Children’s, Levi received more than 1,000 cards from supporters worldwide. He even received a special visit from former University of Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops. After a remarkable recovery, Levi recently competed in the Oklahoma City Special Olympics, placing first in the 100-meter fast walk and fifth in the Turbo Javelin event. Stories like these demonstrate that with the right care and support, children can overcome even the most daunting of challenges. Your gift of joy this holiday season Bethany Children’s Health Center is a truly joyful place. And much of this joy is made possible by the generosity of individuals, groups and organizations who come together during the holiday season to donate items that directly impact patient care. This holiday season, you can be part of the joy at Bethany Children’s by supporting Oklahoma’s only pediatric rehabilitation hospital. By making a Christmas gift donation to the Joy of Christmas campaign, you’re helping ensure that children experiencing tough times can still celebrate the holidays — and that they have the supplies they need to heal and thrive all year long.  For more information or to donate, visit bethanychildrens.org/joy-of-christmas. Editor’s note: Bethany Children’s Health Center provides pediatric primary care, behavioral health and other specialized medical and therapy services to children in Oklahoma. Learn more about Bethany Children’s, the Joy of Christmas campaign and the planned expansion of outpatient services at bethanychildrens.org.

The Joy of Christmas campaign The joy at Bethany Children’s reaches new heights during the holiday season, thanks to the annual Joy of Christmas campaign at this pediatric rehabilitation hospital. From November through December, the hospital invites the community, including individuals, churches, businesses and groups, to help bring the joy of Christmas to patients who are unable to spend the holidays at home. Donations of gifts, supplies and necessities pour in, providing comfort and joy to children who might otherwise miss out on special moments. It’s easy to participate: donors shop online using the Bethany Children’s Amazon Wish List, with items shipped directly to the hospital. The wish list includes basic necessities like diapers and wipes as well as toys, books and therapeutic items carefully selected by the hospital’s nurses, teachers and therapists. These gifts support the children’s care, learning and growth throughout the year. In 2023, the Joy of Christmas campaign was a tremendous success, providing more than 500,000 diapers, wipes, lotions and other essentials, plus $70,000 worth of toys and therapeutic items. To put this in perspective, the hospital uses more than 300,000 diapers annually to care for patients. These donations allow the hospital staff to focus on delivering top-tier medical care without worrying about supply needs. The campaign is not just about the items themselves — it’s about what these gifts represent. The donations enable children to experience the holidays as they would at home, complete with a visit from Santa Claus, who delivers gifts to each patient. This outpouring of love and generosity creates a sense of normalcy and joy, even for children facing the toughest challenges. Healing through generosity The impact of this giving extends far beyond the holiday season. Bethany Children’s Health Center had a groundbreaking year in 2024, performing the world’s first robotic Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) procedure on a pediatric patient. The result? Immediate improvement in motor function for 8-year-old Karleigh Fry, who suffers from rapid-onset primary dystonia, a disorder that causes involuntary muscle movements.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 21

Mom Talk

Shop Small, Celebrate Big

4 meaningful ways to support local small businesses this holiday season ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA MUSHI-BRUNT

O ne of my favorite childhood memories is the excitement of finding the Christmas shopping catalogs in our mailbox each year. My siblings and I would leaf through them, circling the toys we dreamed about finding under the tree Christmas morning. I also remember watching news stories about the chaos of Black Friday shoppers clamoring to buy the latest Cabbage Patch Kid dolls. As an adult, I have grown

Shop — and keep shopping

CHRISTINA

AND HER DAUGHTER

The most obvious way to support small businesses is to give them your business. I recently took my youngest on a small business outing. She loved the unique local items we found. Whether it’s a local retail store or a small service provider, shop and utilize their services consistently. Becoming a regular customer is vital to small businesses. Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30 is a great holiday shopping alternative or complement to Black Friday and

STOP BY BLUEBIRD BOOKS.

Gift experiences Supporting local businesses isn’t limited to buying products. Consider giving the gift of experiences. It could be a membership to a local indoor playground like The Play Pit, where your littles can play safely while you work. Or, maybe it’s a hands-on private class on beadwork at Alouette for your crafty teenager and her besties. Buy gift cards Not sure what your loved one truly wants? Opt for a gift card for items or services from a local small business. Buying a gift card adds to the business’s revenue, and when your loved one uses it, they may find additional items to purchase beyond the amount on the card. And if your loved one is a new customer, they are now aware of a local business they can continue to support. I recently discovered a local anime business where I can buy a gift certificate for my anime-loving son.

weary of the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping. I now enjoy the simplicity of walking into

Cyber Monday. It’s a perfect opportunity to support those local businesses you already love and to explore new ones that could soon become your favorites.

a small local business and finding unique items I know my loved ones will appreciate. Shopping small and local during the holidays is a gift to

But, don’t stop after you’ve finished your holiday shopping. Visit them

throughout the year. At local toy store Kidoodles, manager Jennifer Brooks estimates 60 to 70 percent of in-store shopping happens during the holidays. However, you can return to shop for birthdays year-round. A cute concept Kidoodles offers is a “Birthday Wish Basket.” Your kiddo can go to the store, grab a round, white basket and fill it up with all the items they would like for their birthday. Then, you can tell family and friends to stop by the store, buy items from your child’s wish basket and leave with the gift wrapped and ready to give. For those last-minute shoppers, Kidoodles also offers a personal shopping service.

your loved ones and small business owners. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are just over 62,000 businesses with one to 20 employees in Oklahoma. Whether it’s the local pet groomer, cozy bookstore or dance studio, small business owners rely on their communities to thrive. But how can you support local small businesses? Here are four ways I will be supporting local small businesses during the holidays.

CHRISTINA PERUSES GIFTS AT ONE STOP ANIME.

22 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024

Find small businesses with these resources: • Independent Shopkeepers Association, isaok.org • Visit OKC, visitokc.com • Keep It Local OK, keepitlocalok.com • MetroFamily’s list of

Heather Self, owner of One Stop Anime, has found social media and the store’s website to be the most effective ways to stay connected to customers and gain new ones. According to Löhmann’s Good Things’ Brittany Parks, social media serves as an important tool to share products and events. “Our Facebook page helps us get the word out,” said Parks. Case in point: that’s how I found the perfect gift for my Gen X husband, who always has a package of mints in his car: mints in a Rubik’s Cube container.

the best places to shop on Small Business Saturday 

Like, follow and share Like, follow and share your favorite local business on social media for friends to see. For example, was your family photo session amazing? Share and tag your photographer’s social media and website information. Write positive reviews. Get the word out for them!

As the holidays approach, support your local community members who are small business owners. Happy holiday shopping! Let’s Party! Make your child’s celebration extra special with these local businesses.

CHRISTINA AND HER DAUGHTER VISIT EDMOND ANTIQUES ON A SMALL BUSINESS SHOPPING OUTING.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024 23

Discover local

We asked the owners of local shops around the OKC metro about their favorite family holiday traditions. Discover their top picks in this special section, and visit these locally owned shops when you need to purchase holiday gifts. OKC store owners share holiday traditions 1325 N Walker Ave, OKC commonplacebooks okc .com Indie bookstore in Midtown since 2016, focused on culture and community We choose an evening in December (never Christmas Eve, since the Commonplace Books

17860 N MacArthur Blvd, Ste D, Edmond blackswanboutique.com Discover a wide range of clothing, jewelry, gifts, tech gadgets and baby items Last year we opened our home to friends who were unable to celebrate with their own families by hosting ‘Friends Giving’ and ‘Friends Christmas.’ This was so well received that it is sure to become an annual event! Kimberly Swan Black Swan Boutique

priest dad is always busy at church!), and every member of the family has a beautifully wrapped book with an inscription from mom inside telling why it was chosen. We eat charcuterie and drink hot cocoa and read silently but together all evening. Sarah Carr

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION. THIS SHOP GUIDE IS GENEROUSLY SPONSORED BY MEMBERS OF THE INDEPENDENT SHOPKEEPERS ASSOCIATION. LEARN MORE AT ISAok.org .

24 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2024

Parcel Goods and Gifts

140 E 5th St, Ste 100, Edmond shopparcelok.com

Shop a wide selection of Christmas gifts for all ages, plus grab last-minute stocking stuffers We enjoy grabbing Katiebugs hot cocoa and walking around the Holiday Pop-Ups in Midtown. We also make a trip to the Yukon

Christmas lights each year. And we love attending the Christmas Eve candlelight service at our church and then going home to get in our Christmas pajamas. Paige & Logan McAlister

Shop Good

1007 N Broadway Ave, OKC shopgoodokc.com

Explore screen-printed apparel and accessories, as well as a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts One of our favorite family traditions is working the Christmas Eve shift at the shop as a family. We’ve done this since the kids were babies. It started as a way to make sure the rest of our team gets a head start on the holiday, but now that the kids are older it’s just really fun. Sawyer likes to answer the phone as Buddy the Elf (‘What’s your favorite color?’) and Hadley likes to gift wrap for all of the frazzled 20-something-year-old guys who run in looking for gifts on their way to family dinner. Their favorite thing is when a customer brings their family dog shopping, too. We always share a little toast to another hard-earned holiday season together before heading home to wait for Santa. Audrey Falk

Visit the Holiday Pop-Up Shops in Midtown OKC Nov. 29-Dec. 20.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

OKC Family Fun in November and December Contents 26 Things to do in November 26 Honor Veterans Day 32 Celebrate Native Heritage Month 34 Holiday light displays 36 Things to do in December 40 Where to find Santa 42 Holiday shopping events 44 Holiday productions 48 Ice rinks

OKC BROADWAY PRESENTS DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL , PLAYING AT CIVIC CENTER MUSIC HALL NOV. 6-10. JAMES SCHULTZ AS THE GRINCH, AERINA DEBOER AS CINDY-LOU WHO AND THE TOURING COMPANY OF DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL. PHOTOS BY JEREMY DANIEL.

Calendar of Events

Things to do in November NOV. 9

NOV. 9-10 OKC Renaissance and Scottish Festival at OKC Fairgrounds (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features a variety of Scottish and medieval-themed activities including Highland Games, jousting, minstrels, magicians, falconry and more. Adults, $12-$15; kids (3-12), $5. One free child’s ticket with the purchase of an adult advance ticket. Saturday & Sunday, 10am-6pm. okcrenfest.org NOV. 9-13 Edmond Just Between Friends Children’s & Maternity Consignment Sale at Oklahoma Christian University (2501 E Memorial Rd, Edmond) features gently used children’s and maternity items. Admission charged on select days and times. $5-$20. See website for hours. edmondjbfsale.com NOV. 10 FREE Admission to Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr). Visitors of all ages receive access to the museum at no cost on the second Sunday of each month, thanks to Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program. Noon-5pm. okcmoa.com

FREE Edmond International Festival at Edmond Festival Market Place (30 W 1st St, Edmond) features booths from countries worldwide, live performances and authentic cuisines. 11am-2pm. facebook.com/UCOISC

FREE Second OHOF Saturdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features free museum admission, plus crafts and activities focused on an Oklahoma Hall of Fame member. 10am- 2pm. Also held: Dec. 14. oklahomahof.com Geekapalooza: A STEAM Festival for Kids by MetroFamily at Rose State College (1910 Hudiburg Dr, Midwest City) features hands-on projects and expo booths hosted by local leaders about STEAM subjects including robotics, the science of flight, coding and more. $5 advance tickets, $8 at the door; kids (under 2) & adults, free. 10am- 2pm. metrofamilymagazine.com Curiousiday: Fields of Discovery at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) explores sustainable farming practices and the ancient wisdom of civilizations past. Free with admission. 10am-4pm. samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

FREE Second Saturday at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features a family-focused day of art-making activities, live performances and gallery adventures. November’s theme is Printed Cities. 1-4pm. Also held: Dec. 14. oklahomacontemporary.org

Honor Veterans Day

NOV. 9 Veterans Day 5k at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) features a 5k run and family activities benefiting The Hugs Project OKC, a nonprofit that ships care packages to American servicemen and women in highly combative areas. $25-$30. 2-4pm. runsignup.com/Race/ OK/Edmond/VeteransDay5KMitchPark NOV. 11 FREE Edmond Veterans Day Celebration at Edmond History Museum & Stephenson Park (431 S Blvd, Edmond) features live performances, guest speakers, kids’ activities and more. 4:30pm. edmondhistory.org

FREE Moore Veterans Day Ceremony at Veterans Park (1900 SE 4th St, Moore) features a special ceremony honoring the sacrifices of local veterans and their families. 10-11am. cityofmoore.com FREE Veterans Day Parade in Midwest City (8700 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features a parade with marching bands, military personnel and equipment, Shriner’s and more. 10-11am. midwestcityok.org Veterans Day Luncheon & Ceremony at American Legion Post 73 (5000 SE 24th St, Del City) features a hot dog lunch followed by a ceremony with a memorial dedication, a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps. Free to attend. Noon- 2pm. facebook.com/DelCityChamber

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Calendar of Events

PHOTO BY GUY RHODES, COURTESY OF RAIL EVENTS INC.

Looking for volunteer opportunities for your family? Help your children experience the beauty of giving back with this guide.  tree lighting by Mayor David Holt. 5:30- 8pm. downtownindecember.com NOV. 15-JAN. 5 FREE Weekends on the OKC Streetcars (various locations). Enjoy complimentary fares on the OKC Streetcars on the weekends. Friday, 6am-2am; Saturday, 7am-2am; Sunday, 7am-10pm. downtownindecember.com NOV. 16 Pecan Festival in Luther (Main St, Luther) features local artists, artisans, musicians, food, contests, crafts and more. Free to attend. 10am-7pm. eventeny. com/events/lutherpecanfestival-11766

NOV. 11-DEC. 29 The Polar Express Train Ride at Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand Blvd) features a one- hour train ride set to the sights and sounds of the motion picture. Adults, $50-$79; kids (2-11), $44-$74. See website for a schedule of departure times. okcthepolarexpressride.com NOV. 12 FREE OKC Tree Lighting Festival presented by Heartland in Bricktown (2 Mickey Mantle Dr) features live performances, family-friendly activities and the traditional countdown to the

Free instructional and early learning materials for Oklahoma’s blind and low vision children. Large print and braille materials, technology loans and more. oklahoma.gov/olbph

metrofamilymagazine.com/holiday-volunteering

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