Making new memories and honoring the beloved.
The precious memories we make during the holidays we hold with a profound appreciation. The atmosphere is cozy and lighthearted. The lights are bright and inspiring. And the sights, sounds and smells of the season fill our hearts and remind us of what’s truly important. As the holiday season comes to life, memories of Christmases past come flooding back – as do opportunities to create new and exciting traditions.
Come along as we dive into some of our favorite holiday traditions. You may recognize some and be inspired to incorporate new ones. Let us know your favorite holiday traditions down below!
Stroll down the Bricktown Canal
View Destination
OKC’s lively entertainment district offers the quintessential Christmastime in the city experience. The canal is draped in Christmas lights to enjoy while walking down the cobblestones or from a seat on the water taxi. With its wide range of restaurants, shops and entertainment to choose from, the illuminated Bricktown Canal is more than the connecting pathway this holiday season and is sure to be a highlight of your time in the city.
Indulge in Charleston’s comfort food
View Destination
As you stroll down the Bricktown Canal, stop into Charleston’s for a cozy yet sophisticated meal. Start with some warm, made-from-scratch croissants before moving on to mains like barbeque baby back ribs or roasted prime rib. Or try the parmesan crusted chicken seasoned in parmesan, walnut and pecan crust, topped with marinara on a bed of angel hair pasta. Add a slice of the famous Key Lime pie to round out a delicious meal.
Skate in a glimmering downtown park
View Destination
From when the sun hits the ice to when the glimmering evening lights turn on, the Devon Ice Rink is one of OKC’s most dazzling holiday attractions. Situated downtown in Myriad Botanical Gardens, the magical park atmosphere welcomes fun seekers of all ages to skate the 5,500-square-foot rink and enjoy seasonal food and beverages. Enjoy it until January 30!
Seeing The Nutcracker live
View Destination
There’s something idyllic about walking into the Civic Center Music Hall to enjoy a live performance of a classic holiday story. That must be why so many families make “The Nutcracker” part of their annual Christmas traditions. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic’s staging of “The Nutcracker” is sure to fill your heart with the Christmas spirit and captivate both new and returning viewers. The show runs December 11-19, so don’t miss it!
Drive through a Celebration of Lights
View Destination
Driving through a lights display bundled up together in the car with a hot beverage is a time-honored tradition. The Chickasaw Cultural Center gives you that opportunity with its festive drive-through Celebration of Lights experience through the end of the year. It’s free and open to the public to enjoy daily from 6-9 p.m.
Get outdoors at Lake Murray State Park
View Destination
With all the cozying up and comfort foods, it’s nice to step outside and breathe in fresh, crisp air. Lake Murray State Park is an excellent destination for families and couples looking to make the most of the holiday season. You have a thousand acres of trails to hike, and doing it together makes the beautiful natural scenery even better. Stay awhile and book a stay at Lake Murray Lodge or Lake Murray Floating Cabins.
Dine and drink at a lavish downtown hotel
View Destination
The Skirvin Hilton’s magical ambiance serves as the perfect backdrop for holiday memories in downtown Oklahoma City. Walking into the lobby, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the scene of a holiday movie. The hotel hosts a full calendar of festivities like breakfast and visits with Santa, caroling in the Red Piano Lounge and live music to accompany an elegant dinner at Park Avenue Grill. It all commences with the tree lighting event December 7 from 5-7 p.m.
Go snow tubing at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark
View Destination
Making its grand return to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark is WinterFest and the gigantic snow tubing slope for thrill seekers of all ages. The beloved holiday tradition is enhanced this year with a lineup of movies on the video board, sparkling holiday lighting and décor and seasonal snacks to create a festive holiday atmosphere. This event is sure to be a highlight you and your family will cherish.
Enjoy a holiday brunch at the Colcord Hotel
View Destination
If you’re spending the holidays in the city, make time to brunch at Flint, located on the first floor of the Colcord Hotel downtown. Its upscale yet cozy atmosphere welcomes diners in search of delicious contemporary American favorites. Try the decadent French toast: custard brioche bread, candied pecans, brown sugar, topped with molasses butter. Served with a side of sausage, it’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Flint’s downtown location makes it a perfect stop while enjoying Downtown in December festivities.
What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? Let us know in the comments below!
Submit your comment
What is your favorite holiday tradition?