Welcome to your ultimate guide to all the winter fun in Oklahoma! Whether you're a local looking for new adventures or a visitor eager to explore, I've got you covered. From holiday lights that dazzle to snow tubing adventures that thrill and cozy cabin getaways that make for the perfect retreat, the Sooner State's winter has something for everyone. Let's dive into the best things to do in winter in Oklahoma.

Holiday Events In Oklahoma

Get ready to embrace the holiday season in Oklahoma, where the celebrations are as diverse as they are delightful. From the vibrant festivities of "Downtown in December" and the enchanting "Winterfest" to the sparkling "Christmas in the Park" in Yukon, the radiant "Rhema Christmas Lights," and the timeless allure of "The Nutcracker" ballet, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Join me on a festive journey as we explore some of Oklahoma's top holiday events, each offering its unique flavor of merriment and community spirit.

1. Downtown in December

Location: Downtown Oklahoma City, OK

Popularity: Very popular and busier on the weekends.

Price: Free. Some independent events/attractions may have a cost.

Celebrate the holidays in downtown Oklahoma City during the annual Downtown in December event. Enjoy outdoor ice skating, thrilling snow tubing, free water taxi rides along the illuminated Bricktown Canal, and festive light displays. This family-friendly tradition attracts hundreds of thousands to the city's winter wonderland. Don't miss the Devon Ice Rink in Myriad Botanical Gardens, dazzling lights in Automobile Alley, and horse-drawn carriage rides in Bricktown. It's the most magical time of year to visit OKC.

2. Winterfest

Location: Downtown Tulsa, OK

Popularity: Busy on the weekends.

Price: Free. $6-$12/skate.

Experience the magic of Winterfest in downtown Tulsa, an annual holiday tradition that turns the city into a festive dreamland. Enjoy outdoor ice skating, admire one of Oklahoma's tallest Christmas trees, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, savor live entertainment, and explore enchanting holiday light displays. Don't miss the outdoor ice rink next to the BOK Center, carriage rides at Third & Denver, surprise visits from Segway Santa, concessions, and a holiday market with unique Oklahoma-made gifts.

3. Yukon's Christmas In The Park

Location: Yukon, OK

Popularity: Very popular and busier on the weekends.

Price: Admission is free, and donations are accepted.

Every holiday season, Yukon, Oklahoma, transforms into a festival of lights with Christmas in the Park. This event boasts over 5 million lights and 500 whimsical displays, making it Oklahoma's largest drive-thru light show. Visitors can enjoy the spectacle in three ways: by car, on foot, or by taking the Christmas in the Park Train. Along the way, you'll find new displays, selfie stations, and even an ice skating rink. Santa Claus makes appearances on Fridays and Saturdays, and you can meet popular Christmas characters. Don't miss the three-story-tall animated RGB Christmas tree that puts on a captivating light show synchronized with jolly tunes. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!

4. Rhema Christmas Lights

Location: Broken Arrow, OK

Popularity: Very popular and busier on the weekends.

Price: Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.

Check out the annual celebration at Rhema Christmas Lights in Broken Arrow, where over 3 million twinkling lights dance to the sounds of Christmas across 110 acres. This cherished tradition features captivating displays such as a gingerbread family, Noah's ark, 3D angels, reindeer, a Christmas tree forest, a nativity scene, and more. You can drive through the lights, take a stroll, or enjoy them from a horse-drawn carriage. Don't miss the beautifully illuminated Rhema Park bridge, complete with music-synced lights. While you're there, indulge in concessions like hot chocolate and coffee.

5. The Nutcracker

Location: Oklahoma City, OK

Popularity: Very popular.

Price: $30-$115/ticket

Don't miss the holiday magic of The Nutcracker, one of Oklahoma's favorite traditions. Each December, the Oklahoma City Ballet puts its own spin on this classic, enchanting ballet. It's a heartwarming story that's been delighting audiences for generations, featuring the Mouse King, Nutcracker Prince, and a brigade of toy soldiers – all coming together to create a magical Christmas fairytale.

Christmas Towns In Oklahoma

Immerse yourself in holiday cheer and explore some of the coziest Christmas towns in Oklahoma. From the heartwarming traditions of Claremore to the Dickensian delights of Guthrie, the iconic Leg Lamp in Chickasha, and the Hallmark movie-worthy experiences in Enid, these towns have unique ways of celebrating the season. Journey through the best Christmas towns in Oklahoma, where the magic of the holidays comes to life.

6. Claremore

Location: Claremore, OK

Popularity: Loved by locals and nearby residents.

Price: Free. Some independent events/attractions may have a cost.

Claremore ushers in the holiday season with a Community Tree Lighting event featuring music, hot chocolate, and cookies. The festive spirit continues with Dickens on the Boulevard, a two-day Victorian-themed festival in downtown Claremore. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, Santa photos, street dances, and historical reenactments. Shop in decorated boutiques, take a Christmas wagon ride, and savor Victorian cuisine. Claremore Lake also shines with holiday lights, and the Claremore Christmas Parade will feature bands, floats, and surprises.

7. Guthrie

Location: Guthrie, OK

Popularity: A small-town favorite. Loved by locals and nearby residents.

Price: Free. Some independent events/attractions may have a cost.

Arrive in a bygone era and immerse yourself in the magic of a Territorial Christmas in Guthrie, home to the largest Historic Preservation District in the U.S. Be transported to the cherished holiday traditions of yesteryears as you listen to carolers, take enchanting candlelit trolley rides, and gaze upon storefronts that bring Victorian-era Guthrie to life. This spirited celebration offers a classic Christmas parade and a heartwarming living nativity scene. Explore homes beautifully adorned in early 20th-century decor on the Territorial Homes Tour, and be amazed at the enchanting period costumes worn during Victorian Walk Evenings. And for that extra touch of holiday wonder, make sure not to miss the Pollard Theatre in Guthrie, where a timeless winter tale takes center stage.

8. Chickasha

Location: Chickasha, OK

Popularity: A small-town favorite. Loved by locals and nearby residents in OKC.

Price: Some independent events/attractions may have a cost. Viewing the Leg Lamp and Festival of Light is free.

Chickasha, located in central Oklahoma, is a town known for unique holiday attractions. It's home to the 50-foot-tall recreation of the iconic "A Christmas Story" Leg Lamp. Legend has it that Chickasha artist Noland James's Leg Lamp inspired the famous movie prop, making his hometown the perfect location for it. Each year, Chickasha transforms into a holiday haven during the Festival of Light. This annual event features a breathtaking show of 3.5 million twinkling lights. Visitors can stroll along illuminated walkways admiring the 172-ft. Christmas tree, and enjoy animated displays synchronized to festive tunes. Downtown Chickasha is adorned with festive decor, making it a picture-perfect destination during the holiday season.

9. Enid

Location: Enid, OK

Popularity: Hidden gem.

Price: Some independent events/attractions may have a cost. Viewing the The One Enid Christmas Tree is free.

From mid-November to early January, downtown Enid, Oklahoma, transforms into a Hallmark Christmas movie scene with "The One Enid," the world's tallest fresh-cut Christmas Tree, "Holidays on Ice" in Downtown Enid, "Enid Lights Up the Plains," the "BAT Express," and more. It's a picture-perfect holiday experience, making Enid feel like the ideal setting for a heartwarming holiday film. I love a Christmas town with lots of fun holiday activities - don't you?

Outdoor Activities

When the winter months descend upon Oklahoma, the state's outdoor enthusiasts have an array of winter activities awaiting them. From the rugged terrain of Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, where you can witness the untamed beauty of nature, to the exhilarating snow tubing at LifeShare WinterFest, offering thrills and laughter, and the charming Edmond Ice Rink, perfect for lacing up your skates and gliding gracefully across the ice, these outdoor activities ensure that Oklahoma's winters are filled with excitement.

10. Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge

Location: Indiahoma, OK

Popularity: Underrated park.

Price: Free of charge.

Though beautiful year-round, winter at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers a quieter escape, with leafless trees aiding in wildlife spotting. River otters playfully navigate cold waters, eagles return to the area, and birdwatching becomes a delight. Guided family hikes are available, with no reservations needed, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore hiking trails and the refuge's beauty during the season.

11. Snow Tubing at LifeShare WinterFest

Location: Oklahoma City, OK

Popularity: A popular family fun activity.

Price: $15-$18/ticket

Join in on the fun holiday tradition of snow tubing at LifeShare WinterFest in Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. With two slides, including a larger one with three 145-foot lanes for the daring and a smaller 75-foot slide for those seeking a milder thrill, there's winter fun for the whole family. Enjoy the festivities with single-session tickets, or group tickets, or book a private event for an unforgettable experience this holiday season.

12. Edmond Ice Rink

Location: Edmond, OK

Popularity: Popular family-friendly activity.

Price: $10-$14

If you love ice skating, don't miss the Edmond Ice Rink. Located by the silo in Mitch Park, it's the perfect spot for families to enjoy ice skating, groove to holiday tunes, and grab some tasty snacks. Get ready to lace up, have fun, and embrace the winter months on the ice.

Winter Getaways

If you're looking for the perfect winter getaway in Oklahoma, I've got you covered with three fantastic options. Journey's End Cabin, Robbers Cave State Park Cabins, and the French Country Honeymoon Cottage offer something for everyone, from cozy cabins in the woods to romantic cottage escapes.

13. Journey's End Cabin

Location: McCurtain County, OK

Popularity: Hidden gem.

Price: $238.75/night

Seeking a cozy winter retreat in Broken Bow, Oklahoma? Journey's End Cabin in Timber Creek Trails is the perfect escape. Tucked amid towering trees, it's a haven for fireside relaxation and scenic beauty, especially in the snow-dusted surroundings. With a warm wood interior, a grand fireplace, two bedrooms, and a covered deck featuring a hot tub and fireplace, it's the ultimate spot for a peaceful winter vacation with friends or family.

14. Robbers Cave State Park Cabins

Location: Wilburton, OK

Popularity: Less busy during the winter months.

Price: $108-$133/night

Escape to the rustic cabins at Robbers Cave State Park in Wilburton, Oklahoma, where the scenic Sans Bois Mountains provide a breathtaking winter backdrop. With 26 cabin choices, including single and deluxe options, these accommodations offer modern amenities, fireplaces, and serene lake views. It's an inviting haven for those seeking a winter getaway.

15. French Country Honeymoon Cottage

Location: Broken Bow, OK

Popularity: Hidden gem.

Price: $232/night

Nestled amidst the oaks of Hochatown Trails, this 780-square-foot studio honeymoon cabin provides easy access to Broken Bow Lake, Mountain Fork River, and Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center activities. With a rustic French cottage theme, it offers a spacious living area and bedroom divided by a stunning stone gas fireplace, a double walk-through tiled shower, a soaker tub, two large-screen TVs, and a fully equipped kitchen. Enjoy a king-sized bed, fine bath linens, Wi-Fi, a washer/dryer, an outdoor hot tub, a gas grill, a porch swing, and a fire pit for an ideal peaceful getaway. Don't miss the chance to visit and fulfill your tranquil retreat dreams - a perfect Oklahoma winter hideaway.

Have you been to any of these Oklahoma winter activities? Let me know your favorites from this list!

Looking for more family things to do in Oklahoma in winter? The Science Museum Oklahoma is the place to be. Or maybe you're planning to be spending a lot of time outside? Don't forget to pack these winter essentials!