My family has made a pact to only purchase Christmas presents that support local retailers this year. We had the most fun weekend finding all the best holiday and shopping events that OKC provides and making a list of the most family-friendly, budget-friendly and charming ways to get in the festive mood. Along the way we were able to snag a few photos perfect for holiday cards or even MetroFamily’s holiday family photo contest (wink, wink!)!

1. Stella Nova: If coffee houses were judged by drip coffee alone, Stella Nova is definitely one of my top favorites in OKC. What parent can even dream of beginning a weekend without a great cup of joe?! Plus, all locations offer drive-through ordering, which proves very convenient when you have a toddler in tow who wants to “taste-test” everything in sight. Pro tip: get a mocha latte and add peppermint for the perfect “Christmas in a cup” beverage!
2. Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree Farm: I think you know where this is about to go! The smell of pine trees is enough to turn any “bah humbug” moods of 2020 upside down. They have at least five lots with several varieties of trees including Virginia Pine, White Pine, Scotch Pine, Blue Ice, Carolina Sapphire, Colorado Blue Spruce, Leyland Cypress and Austrian Pine. Bonus: the toddler got to run free and even had a tractor sighting (his favorite!). Located at 7121 Midwest Ln in Edmond. Entry is free as are refreshments, and both trees and wreaths are available in affordable price ranges.
3. Holiday Pop-up Shops at Midtown: This is an event I count down to every year! The Holiday Pop-up Shops rotate every weekend for four weeks and always feature fun, unique and eclectic gifts you don’t see in other places. Gift shopping can literally be a one-stop-shop, rounded out by Katiebug’s hot chocolate and even gift wrapping from the Curbside Chronicle.
4. Terminal Commons: By this point in the day we all needed a rest, a snack and a more toddler-friendly activity. We loaded up and headed to Terminal Commons, a new eatery in the Wheeler District. After a delicious gluten-free muffin and a juice box, our little one was ready to take on the (fenced-in) playground while we watched and sipped coffee from the patio. My husband and I ended up heading back the very next day for lunch since their food looked so delicious. The pesto tortellini salad did not disappoint!
5. Lights on Broadway: While you can enjoy the Automobile Alley lights on any night of the week, we especially enjoyed them during the weekly “Lights on Broadway” event. Rather than being held on one Saturday, it is now spaced out over four Saturdays to make the event as safe as possible and decrease sidewalk and in-store congestion. We especially loved the outstanding window displays, Snowglobe Santa (new this year), balloon artists, live music and other performances.

I’m glad to share some of the ways my family has gotten out of the house in a safe way, found our festive spirit and supported local businesses and organizations at the same time. What is bringing you joy this year? We would love to hear from you! Email tips@metrofamilymagazine.com.