Summer is the perfect time to explore the arts in OKC and make lasting memories as a family. The arts provide wonderful opportunities for families to share unique experiences — whether it’s enjoying live theatre, taking an art class or discovering new artistic expressions.
For children and youth, participating in the arts is more than entertainment. When kids take the stage or explore new art mediums, they build self-confidence, grow emotionally, and develop critical thinking skills.
Within the OKC metro, there is a robust arts scene, and local arts nonprofits have made it easy for families to engage with and enjoy the arts. Make plans for you and your family to have a creative adventure at one (or all!) of these upcoming events.
June & July – Neighborhood Arts
Throughout June and July, metro libraries will showcase free, fun and interactive performance art presentations. In collaboration with Arts Council Oklahoma City, Metropolitan Library System visitors of all ages can enjoy puppet shows, rock and opera music, hip-hop demonstrations and more! Check your local library calendar for a complete schedule of events.
July 3 – OKC Philharmonic Red, White and Boom! Concert
The OKCPHIL will celebrate Independence Day with a free outdoor concert at Scissortail Park. Fun for the whole family, bring your picnic blankets and lawn chair for a wonderful evening filled with inspiring patriotic music followed by an exciting fireworks display.
Second Sundays – Oklahoma City Museum of Art Free Admission
Every ‘Second Sunday’ of the month visitors can enjoy free admission to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Spend the day and be inspired by the museum’s current collections, including the glass and works on paper by contemporary artist, Dale Chihuly. If you can’t make it on a Sunday, children under 17 receive free admission any day of the week.
Second Saturday and Second Saturday XL – Oklahoma Contemporary
Free and open to the public, Second Saturday and Second Saturday XL at Oklahoma Contemporary offers family-friendly art projects, gallery chats and more from 1 to 4 p.m. – all inspired by current exhibitions on view. These events will also feature visual and performance artists.
Help Support the Arts in OKC – Art Matters to All
Whatever the season, local nonprofit Allied Arts raises funds year-round to help make the arts accessible and affordable for metro families. A single donation to Allied Arts has a ripple effect, providing financial support and other resources to more than 40 local arts nonprofits. Allied Arts helps provide scholarships for summer art camps, transport musical theatre to rural classrooms, place teaching artists in low-performing schools, and foster a dynamic, colorful cultural landscape for all to enjoy.
With a $60 donation, you also receive the Allied Arts OKCityCard, a passport unlocking 12 months of discounts for arts, entertainment, shopping, dining out and more. It’s a fantastic way to explore the best of what our metro has to offer while supporting the arts in OKC.
You can learn more about Allied Arts and donate to receive the OKCityCard at www.AlliedArtsOKC.com.
