Oklahoma City’s Tree Lighting Festival Will Blow Your Mind and Ignite Your Holiday Spirit Like Never Before in the USA

Oklahoma City is gearing up for its most awaited event of the year — the Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival. This festival has become an annual tradition that signals the beginning of the holiday season in the heart of the city. People of all ages gather to witness the magical moment when the enormous Christmas tree in Bricktown is lit up, marking the start of a month full of festivities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this event is a perfect way to experience the spirit of Christmas in Oklahoma City.

The Heart of the Holiday Season: The Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival

The Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival is not just any event. It is an experience that brings together families, friends, and tourists from near and far to enjoy an evening of fun, music, and, of course, the sparkling Christmas tree. Held annually, this event kicks off the Downtown in December series of activities, creating a sense of excitement in the air that lasts through the New Year.

Every year, the Tree Lighting Festival draws large crowds to Mickey Mantle Plaza in the Bricktown Entertainment District. This is where the magic happens – where the giant Christmas tree is illuminated, and the holiday cheer fills the streets of Oklahoma City.

When and Where Does the Festival Take Place?

The festival happens each year in November, but the exact date may change. In 2024, the festival took place on Tuesday, November 12, and in 2025, it will happen on Thursday, November 13. The event kicks off at 5:30 PM, and the tree lighting happens at around 6:00 PM, but it’s best to arrive early so you don’t miss any of the action.

The festival takes place at Mickey Mantle Plaza, located at 2 S Mickey Mantle Drive, which is part of the famous Bricktown area in downtown Oklahoma City. This central location makes it easy to access and a great spot to start your holiday journey.

A Night of Magic and Festivity

One of the biggest highlights of the Tree Lighting Festival is the lighting of the giant Christmas tree. The countdown to the moment when the tree lights up is one of the most anticipated parts of the event. It’s not just a lighting ceremony; it’s a celebration of the season, full of joy and excitement. As the tree sparkles to life, the crowd bursts into applause, marking the start of a season filled with festive cheer.

What to Expect at the Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival

If you’ve never been to this festival before, you might be wondering what you can expect. The answer: lots of fun, entertainment, and holiday cheer. Here are some of the key features of the event:

1. Tree Lighting Ceremony

The star of the night is, of course, the Christmas tree. Standing tall at Mickey Mantle Plaza, this tree is the focal point of the evening. At precisely 6:00 PM, the mayor of Oklahoma City helps light up the tree. This magical moment is accompanied by cheers, applause, and the collective excitement of everyone present.

2. Live Performances

Throughout the evening, you’ll be treated to live performances that capture the festive spirit. Local musicians, dancers, and performers take the stage to entertain the crowd with holiday-themed acts. From Christmas carols to dance performances, the atmosphere is filled with joy and celebration.

3. Santa Claus and Photos with Santa

What would a holiday festival be without a visit from Santa Claus? At the Tree Lighting Festival, Santa makes a special appearance, allowing families and children to get their pictures taken with him. It’s a perfect opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.

4. Fun Activities for Children

This festival is very family-friendly. Alongside the performances and tree lighting, there are plenty of fun activities for kids. Children can enjoy things like face painting, balloon art, and even writing letters to Santa. There’s also a special North Pole mailbox where kids can drop off their letters to Santa.

5. Free Holiday Treats

What’s better than enjoying some delicious treats while you’re out celebrating? At the festival, you’ll find free hot chocolate and holiday snacks from local vendors and businesses. It’s the perfect way to warm up and add some extra sweetness to the evening.

The Importance of the Tree Lighting Festival for Oklahoma City

The Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival isn’t just about lights and decorations. It plays a big role in the city’s tourism economy and the local community. The event is part of the Downtown in December campaign, which is a month-long celebration that brings people into the heart of Oklahoma City.

The festival draws both locals and tourists. It’s not just a holiday tradition for Oklahoma City residents; people from nearby cities and even other states make the trip to witness this special occasion. The lighting of the tree marks the beginning of the holiday season and is a major reason why so many visitors come to the city during this time.

The Bricktown Entertainment District, where the festival takes place, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions all in close proximity. This makes the event even more special, as it encourages people to spend the evening enjoying the festivities and exploring all that the area has to offer.

A Community Event for All Ages

The Tree Lighting Festival brings people together. It’s not just an event for families with young children; it’s something that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re coming with friends, family, or even by yourself, the event is welcoming to all. The holiday cheer is contagious, and the live performances, tree lighting, and activities create a wonderful atmosphere that makes you feel part of something bigger.

An Evening of Holiday Magic

The beauty of the festival is that it gives everyone a chance to enjoy the magic of Christmas. The holiday lights, the sound of Christmas music, the joy of meeting Santa, and the warmth of the community all combine to create an experience that’s hard to forget. Whether you’re a long-time Oklahoma City resident or a first-time visitor, the Tree Lighting Festival is an event you’ll want to attend.

Making the Most of Your Visit to the Tree Lighting Festival

If you’re planning to attend the Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival, here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Arrive Early

The festival draws large crowds, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to get a good spot for viewing the tree lighting. The event starts at 5:30 PM, but if you want to secure a great spot near the stage or tree, arriving a bit earlier will ensure you don’t miss any of the action.

Dress Warmly

Since the event takes place in November, the weather can be a bit chilly. Make sure to dress warmly, especially if you’re planning to stay for a few hours. A good coat, scarf, and gloves will keep you comfortable as you enjoy the festivities.

Explore the Bricktown Area

The Tree Lighting Festival is just one of many things you can do in the Bricktown area. After the event, take some time to explore the nearby attractions, restaurants, and shops. You can even stroll along the Bricktown Canal, which is beautifully lit up for the holidays.

Take Photos

The lighting of the tree is a magical moment, so don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the memories. The festival provides plenty of photo opportunities, so make sure you snap some pictures of the tree, the performances, and your loved ones.

Stay Safe and Have Fun

Like any large public event, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. However, the Tree Lighting Festival is a family-friendly and welcoming event, so just focus on having fun and enjoying the holiday atmosphere.

The Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival is a must-see event for anyone in Oklahoma City during the holiday season. It’s a magical celebration that brings together the community, fills the streets with joy, and kicks off the most wonderful time of the year. From the live performances to the beautiful tree lighting, this festival has everything you need to get into the holiday spirit.

If you’ve never been to the festival before, make sure to mark your calendar for next year. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival is an event you won’t want to miss. So gather your friends and family, bundle up, and head to Mickey Mantle Plaza in Bricktown for an unforgettable night of holiday cheer.

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