You’ve already got your favorite Christmas light festivals on your calendar this month, but what about things to do during the day? December is full of so many fun events in the metro, and we’ve broken down some of our favorites for little kids and big kids alike.
Top 3 events for littles:
The Snowy Day and other stories by Ezra Jack Keats
Join Peter and his family and friends as they celebrate the magic of fresh snowfall, the delight of whistling for the first time, the awe in finding a special treasure. This uplifting musical play is all about childhood joys and living each day to the fullest. This stage play is based on four of Ezra Jack Keats’ books: “The Snowy Day,” “Whistle for Willie,” “Goggles” and “A Letter to Amy.” All shows will be performed at the OCT Children’s Center for the Arts, at Oklahoma City University.
Cowboy Christmas Parade
Make plans to visit Historic Stockyards City for the annual Cowboy Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 3! The festivities kick off at 10:00 a.m. with the Slash O Ranch Longhorns leading the parade. More parade performers include equestrian groups, marching bands, antique cars, community groups, law enforcement, pageant royalty, the famous Cowboy Santa, and much more! Following the parade, get your picture made with Cowboy Santa at Stockyards Central, enjoy Oklahoma Opry performers, or shop around the Made in Oklahoma Market next to Little Joe’s Boots.
Second Saturday XL: Snow Glow
Bring the family for a FREE afternoon of art-making, winter fun and holiday memory-making, 1-5 p.m. on Dec. 9. Activities include holiday cards that light and pop up, indoor snowball fight arena, enjoy a drink from Café Contemporary’s hot chocolate bar, experiment with fun art materials in the glow-in-the-dark studio, festive music performed by Oklahoma Youth Orchestra’s Studio Rockestra, aerialist performances, face painting, snow-globe photo opportunities and more!
Top 3 events for bigs:
Saints Santa Fun Run
Grab your costumes and running shoes, the Saints Santa Run is coming to Midtown on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023! This family-friendly winter run is bringing all ages and pets to downtown Oklahoma City for a festive 5K and costume contest.Participate in the 5K Run/Walk or 1-Mile Fun Run and receive a commemorative Saints Santa Run t-shirt and finisher medal. All are invited to enjoy free activities like face painting and balloon art, complimentary snacks and drinks, holiday music and more at our start/finish line celebration on the SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital campus.
Little Women at the Harn
The quintessential coming-of-age story for generations, Little Women, follows the four March sisters as they grow up amid the quintessential coming-of-age story for generations, Little Women, follows the four March sisters as they grow up amid the backdrop of the Civil War. Produced in special partnership with The Harn Homestead, this holiday production of Little Women is like none you have ever seen! Utilizing the physical locations on the homestead, travel throughout the property with Marmee as she, and a cast of beloved characters, share their joy, struggle, love and loss with you in this close and immersive classic Christmastime production. Performances are available at various times from Nov. 30 to Dec. 9.
Lights on Broadway
Cruise down historic Automobile Alley for the district’s holiday open house and experience its stunning light display during the 8th annual Lights On Broadway event (December 2nd, 9th, and 16th). Each December Saturday from 3-7 p.m., various retail shops and restaurants will feature buzz-worthy window displays, in addition to pop-up activities, special promotions, and giveaways. Attendees can also enjoy family-friendly programming along the sidewalks such as live music, balloon art, performances, photos with Santa Claus, and more. Check out the website for date-specific information as well as shops offering festive incentives and discounts!
Looking for even more things to do this December? Check out our holiday guides filled with dozens of events happening this December.
Kirsten Holder is a transplant from Michigan but calls the “land that is grand” her home. She graduated from Oklahoma City University and is passionate about the arts, community development and small business. She is the senior project manager for MetroFamily Magazine and lives in a historic pocket in OKC with her young kids Jimmy and Millie, husband Andrew and puppy, Roserock.