‘Tis the season’ to experience OKC’s Downtown in December

The holiday season officially kicked off in downtown Oklahoma City Nov. 16 with the OKC Tree Lighting Festival outside of the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. But if you missed it, don’t worry. There will be many more events and attractions throughout the rest of December and into the New Year as part of Downtown in December.

The event was created more than 20 years ago by Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership, a not-for-profit organization that advocates for downtown revitalization. Since then, Downtown in December has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the season with over 30 events and attractions. From ice skating, concerts and plays to shopping, spectacular light displays and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus, Downtown in December is sure to bring a smile to even the stingiest of Scrooges.

Although several events happened in November, the months of December and January will be filled with many other events throughout downtown to celebrate the season, a few of which are highlighted below. Learn more by visiting downtownindecember.com.

LIGHTS ON BROADWAY

One of the most stunning holiday light displays in Oklahoma City continues in Automobile Alley this holiday season during the 8th Annual Lights on Broadway event. On Saturday, Dec. 9, and Saturday, Dec. 16, holiday revelers will be able to enjoy local shopping, sidewalk entertainment, carriage rides, special promotions and other holiday-themed activities throughout the evening. And, of course, we can’t forget about the lights – all 600,000 individual LED lights draped over buildings in a “dazzling display of Christmas cheer.” Whether you’re experiencing Automobile Ally from your car, on foot or onboard the OKC Streetcar, the Lights on Broadway event will captivate your imagination and bring more joy to your holiday season.

LYRIC THEATRE’S ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

Lyric Theatre will present its holiday tradition of “A Christmas Carol” indoors at the Plaza Theatre now through Dec. 24. This timeless Charles Dickens’ tale of transformation and redemption for one Ebeneezer Scrooge will feature all-new sets, costumes, lights, sounds and staging. To learn more, visit lyrictheatreokc.com.

OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

What holiday season is complete without seeing a rendition of Oklahoma City Ballet’s production of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker”? An Oklahoma City favorite for more than 50 years, this joyous production awaits you and yours this holiday season. Performances are Dec. 8-10 and Dec. 15-17 at the Civic Center Music Hall. This year’s production features new choreography by Acting Artistic Director Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye as well as students from the OKC Ballet Yvonne Chouteau School and live music from Canterbury Voices and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. A sensory-friendly performance is also scheduled Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. for children and adults who have sensory sensitivities or for anyone who may benefit from being in a more relaxed environment. To see showtimes or purchase tickets, visit okcballet.org.

HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOPS

Now in its 12th year, the Holiday Pop-Up Shops event has entrenched itself as an Oklahoma City and Midtown tradition. Whether you are looking to purchase a unique gift for that special friend or loved one in your life, the Holiday Pop-Up Shops will have all that and more!

Located at the corner of NW 10th and Hudson, the Holiday Pop-Up Shops provide shoppers an opportunity to buy local from dozens of small businesses. Participating shops will be rotating weekly throughout the event and will include dozens of local merchants such as Plenty Mercantile, Shop Good, Curbside Chronicle Wrapping Paper, the Painted Door Gift Boutique and many more.

Shoppers will discover a variety of gifts from clothing and accessories to home goods and children’s toys. Holiday treats, including hot chocolate, are available from various shops such as Katiebug’s Sips & Sweet. There is also live music and even visits from jolly Ol’ Saint Nick himself. Still haven’t purchased your Christmas tree yet? You will find Christmas trees for sale on site that are looking for that perfect home this holiday season.

The shops will be popping up every Friday, Saturday and Sunday now through Dec. 17. To learn more or to see which local merchants are participating in this holiday event, please visit okcpopups.com.