MetroFamily Magazine November December 2024

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.