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Oklahoma Winters: A Wonderland of Activities

ok winter activities

Oklahoma isn’t exactly known for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, but don’t worry, there is still fun to be had in the Sooner State when the cold season arrives. From dazzling light displays during the holidays to outdoor ice skating rinks for the kids to burn off some energy. Here are our favorite winter activities to do in Oklahoma.


Winterfest, Tulsa, OK

This seasonal winter celebration offers 52 days of fun. The ice skating rink is bigger than the one in Rockefeller Center. Enjoy special events, such as breakfast with Santa. Check the website for special rates and the schedule.

Living Nativity, Claremore, OK

This annual event is a great way to build memories with your family. The nativity scene is housed indoors, but you can visit the farm and watch the shepherds tending the flocks by night. It’s also pecan and black walnut season. Make sure to take some home with you for cooking.

“A Christmas Carol,” Guthrie, OK

Guthrie offers several great holiday events and shopping, but the one that’s most loved is the annual retelling of “A Christmas Carol.” It’s a family-friendly theater event that dazzles audiences.

Chickasha Festival of Light, Chickasha, OK

The Festival of Lights runs every year, and it’s probably the biggest light display in Oklahoma. Plan to spend the evening and take a carriage ride, shop in the gift shop and stroll among the lights.

Downtown in December, Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City hosts ice skating, snow tubing and Christmas shows. Enjoy the OKC Ballet’s version of “The Nutcracker” or shop at Mistletoe Market for some innovative gifts. Enjoy dinner at one of the Bricktown restaurants instead of cooking at home.

Water-Zoo Indoor Water Park, Clinton, OK

If you can’t make it to the Caribbean for your winter break, you can go swimming at Water-Zoo. It’s open weekends throughout the winter months, as well as daily during the Christmas Break.

Garden of Lights, Muskogee, OK

The Garden of Lights features holiday lights that emphasize the natural beauty of Honor Park. Turn your radio to the right station and you’ll enjoy a multi-sensory drive through the park. Ice skating is available in the middle of the park. If you have time, check out the kid-friendly light display at The Castle of Muskogee.

Owasso Tree Farm, Owasso, OK

Start a new tradition and cut down a fresh Christmas tree this season. Pick up some evergreen decorations to complete your holiday décor while you’re at the farm.

Christmas in the Park, Elk City, OK

Enjoy Christmas lights, a carousel and shopping at this holiday light display in Western Oklahoma. You might even want to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park to appreciate the lights in a whole new way.

Oklahoma City Thunder Game, OK

If you love fast and exciting sports, the OKC Thunder aims to please. One of the best teams in the nation plays its home games right in the heart of the state. It’s one of the most popular ways to spend a winter evening.

Woolaroc Wonderland of Lights, Bartlesville, OK

Located north of Tulsa, the Woolaroc holiday light display is a special treat. Santa Claus hangs out in the museum, live entertainment is on site, and enjoy a wagon ride. Warm up with some hot chocolate or apple cider from the gift store.

Key Insights at a Glance

  • Winterfest: Offers a large outdoor ice skating rink, special events like breakfast with Santa, and runs for 52 days with various activities.
  • Living Nativity: Experience a live nativity scene, visit farm animals, and enjoy seasonal pecan and black walnut harvesting.
  • "A Christmas Carol": A family-friendly theatrical performance held annually, capturing the spirit of the holiday with a classic story.
  • Chickasha Festival of Light: Known for its extensive holiday light display, offering carriage rides, a gift shop, and light strolls.
  • Downtown in December: Features ice skating, snow tubing, and Christmas shows, including performances like "The Nutcracker" by the OKC Ballet.
  • Water-Zoo Indoor Water Park: An indoor water park open during the weekends and daily over Christmas break, offering a tropical escape in winter.
  • Garden of Lights: A drive-through light display set in Honor Park with synchronized radio music, ice skating, and additional kid-friendly activities at The Castle of Muskogee.
  • Owasso Tree Farm: Provides a traditional experience of cutting down your own Christmas tree and buying holiday decorations.
  • Christmas in the Park: Features a holiday light display, carousel rides, shopping, and horse-drawn carriage rides through the park.
  • Oklahoma City Thunder Game: Catch an exciting basketball game with one of the nation's top NBA teams, offering a lively way to spend a winter evening.
  • Woolaroc Wonderland of Lights: A holiday light display at Woolaroc Museum with Santa visits, live entertainment, wagon rides, and seasonal treats like hot chocolate and cider.
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