Downtown in December events plentiful during the holidays

Local retailers are once again “popping up” in Midtown near downtown Oklahoma City as part of Holiday Popup Shops from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays through Dec. 19. The Independent Shopkeepers Association puts on the annual Holiday Pop-Up Shops event to promote shopping local and encouraging visitors to purchase holiday gifts from local shops.

Nearly two dozen shops will display their products each week in iconic geodesic domes on the corner of NW 10th and Hudson in the Midtown District. The Holiday Pop-Up Shops affords customers the opportunity to shop in a more relaxing and stress-free environment, while also supporting their local businesses. Shoppers will discover a variety of gifts from clothing and accessories to home goods and children’s toys. Holiday treats like hot chocolate will be available to enjoy, along with live music and visits from Santa Claus. And if you still do not have your Christmas Tree purchased, a tree lot is even on-site for your convenience.

To learn more about the Holiday Pop-Up Shops event or to see a list of participating retailers, please visit okcpopups.com.

DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER TRADITIONS

The area around downtown Oklahoma City is looking festive once again this year as Downtown in December celebrates its 20th anniversary, including more than 30 events and attractions.

The city’s 10-block polar playground attracts nearly half a million visitors each year. Returning in 2021 are popular events such as snow tubing at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, the Saints Santa Run and Lights on Broadway, plus more. Many of the events are free. Learn more at downtownindecember.com.

LYRIC’S ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

Lyric Theatre will present its production of “A Christmas Carol” outdoors through Dec. 23 at the historic Harn Homestead, where it will be reimagined as the Victorian Era setting for Ebenezer Scrooge, Jacob Marley, magical spirits and a host of unforgettable characters. Patrons will follow Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of transformation and redemption, as they are guided from scene to scene at the homestead. Learn more at lyrictheatreokc.com.

LIGHTS ON BROADWAY

Cruise down historic Automobile Alley for the district’s holiday open house and this year’s stunning light display with the 6th annual Lights on Broadway event. On Saturdays from 4 to 8 p.m. through Dec. 11, various retail shops and restaurants will feature buzz-worthy holiday displays in addition to family-friendly activities, special promotions and giveaways.

There will be complimentary carriage rides, sidewalk artists and other entertainment, bright and colorful holiday décor, special promotions and much more.

OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Artistic Director Robert Mills’ beautiful staging of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” will warm your heart and fill you with the spirit of the holidays. An OKC favorite now in its 50th year, this joyous production awaits you and yours this holiday season at the Civic Center Musical Hall. Performances are Dec. 11-12 and Dec. 17-19. To purchase tickets, visit okcballet.org.

Other Downtown in December events include the Devon Ice Rink at the Myriad Botanical Gardens at the corner of Robinson and Sheridan avenues; A Dog Day in December at the Midtown Mutts Dog Park on Dec. 2; OKC Philharmonic’s “The Christmas Show” Dec. 3-4; Opening Night New Year celebration on New Year’s Eve; and many more.

A great way to get around to all of the Downtown in December events is by riding on Oklahoma City’s Streetcars, which are free on the weekends through the holiday season, thanks to EMBARK . In addition, people can ride the streetcars for free any time after parking in one of EMBARK’s five public garages. Each parking receipt is valid for two people to ride free for 24 hours.