Your Guide to the Best Christmas Destinations Around OKC

When December rolls in, I’m always reminded of one of the many reasons I love calling this part of Oklahoma home: our holiday spirit. From community light shows to new traditions right here in Norman, the OKC area shines bright every Christmas season. Below are some of my favorite local spots and experiences worth planning for this year; whether you’re catching lights with family, showing friends around town, or creating new traditions of your own.

Chickasha Festival of Light - A Holiday Classic Worth the Drive

If you’ve never been, Chickasha’s Festival of Light is one of those events everyone in central Oklahoma talks about every winter. For more than three decades, Shannon Springs Park has been transformed into a sweeping holiday landscape filled with millions of lights, animated displays, and classic holiday scenes you can enjoy by walking or driving through the park. It really feels like something out of a holiday movie.

What I love about this event is how inclusive it is, it’s free to walk or drive through (donations are encouraged) and there’s plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the displays at their own pace. In addition to the lights, you’ll find activities like ice skating, carriage rides, and food vendors, which make it easy to turn your visit into an evening outing rather than just a quick stop. The centerpiece is a towering Christmas tree you can spot from afar, and it feels extra special on a cold December night when it’s lit against the Oklahoma sky. (Chickasaw Country)

👉 More info: https://chickashafestivaloflight.org/ (Celebrating 33 Years in 2025!)

Downs Family Christmas Light Display - Norman Tradition with Heart

Right in Norman, the Downs Family Christmas Light display is one of my go-to recommendations for people who want something personal that feels festive without the crowds of large events. This isn’t a commercial show, it’s a long-running family tradition where the lights are set to music and thousands of visitors come through in their cars to enjoy it each year. It’s open nightly (weather permitting) from around Thanksgiving through early January, and the entire experience is free; visitors are encouraged to donate canned goods or cash to support the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. (Downs Family Christmas)

In my experience, it’s one of those outings where people stay in their cars with cocoa, listen to the music, and really soak in the moment, kids, adults, and even pets bundled up have a great time. It’s a true community highlight and one of those local gems I always point friends toward when they’re back in town for the holidays.

👉 More info: https://www.downsfamilychristmas.com/ (Downs Family Christmas)

University of Oklahoma - New Holiday Tradition on Campus

This year is extra special for the University of Oklahoma community because the campus is hosting an expanded holiday lights celebration on the South Oval. While OU has long had festive decor and seasonal events, 2025 marks a season where the campus is not just lighting up - it’s inviting the broader community to partake in a celebration with food trucks, s’mores, photos with Santa, and light projections on iconic campus buildings. (ou.edu)

For alumni and current students alike, the OU holiday event has quickly become more than just another display, it’s becoming something people plan their December visits around. The South Oval becomes a gathering place where traditions are made, which makes it a great stop for families or anyone looking to mix local culture with seasonal activities.

👉 Details and updates: https://www.ou.edu/soval-series (search for Holiday Lights) (ou.edu)

Oklahoma City Zoo Safari Lights - Lights with a Unique Twist

For anyone looking to pair holiday lights with an experience that’s a bit different from the usual displays, OKC Zoo Safari Lights is one of my favorite festive attractions in the metro. This event lets you take in themed light displays that celebrate wildlife and holiday scenes alike. You can choose a drive-through experience, which includes walk-through ticket options, or purchase walk-through only tickets. Every year the zoo adds new interactive features, treats for kids, and festive photo opportunities, making it more than just a drive through Christmas lights. (Visit Oklahoma City)

Because this is ticketed and can sell out on peak dates, I always recommend planning ahead, especially if you’re going with family or visiting on a weekend. It’s a wonderful way to combine a night out with a sense of adventure and wonder that appeals to all ages.

👉 More info and tickets: https://www.visitokc.com/events/annual-events/oklahoma-city-zoo-safari-lights/ (Visit Oklahoma City)

Final Tips for Holiday Lights Around OKC

• Plan ahead: Events like the zoo lights and OU holiday celebration often require advance reservation or have specific operating dates and times.
  
  
• Weeknight visits can offer a more relaxed experience, especially at larger displays like Chickasha’s or the zoo.
  
  
• Bundle outings: Make it a festive night out: dinner in Norman, a campus stroll, and then the Downs lights makes for a fun, full evening.
  
  

The holiday season in Oklahoma City and its surrounding communities is full of charm, heart, and big displays of community spirit. Whether you’re here for years or just visiting, these experiences are some of the best ways to take in the magic of the season and make memories that last long after the lights come down.