Weekly Events Calendar: December 11-17

Each week, Oklahoma Today staffers comb through their calendars to find a handful of great events happening across the state. Get out! See Oklahoma! And be sure to let us know what you find, either here or on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @oklahomatoday.

True Oklahomans know that the hippopotamus is the ultimate large land mammal to get as a Christmas present, but wouldn’t a bison be nice to have under the tree as well? Okay, so unless you happen to be a rancher of some kind, you’re probably not in the market for a real-life bison like those that will be up for auction at the Oklahoma Bison Association Sale in Oklahoma City’s State Fairgrounds, but the event is open to the public. Take advantage of the rare opportunity to get an up-close look at our state animal. December 15. Admission, free. okbison.org

Those in the Oklahoma City area can get a glimpse of the state animal without much of a drive at the Oklahoma Bison Association Sale at the State Fairgrounds. Photo courtesy Pixabay

Loud noises and bright lights can be exhilarating for some people, but they’re not for everyone. The Museum of the Great Plains in Lawton realizes this, which is why on Saturday evening they will be hosting a special Neuro Night promising a sensory-friendly experience dedicated to guests with autism, ADD/ADHD, or other types of neurodivergence. Enjoy interactive exhibits and self-directed activities on science and history that take guests from the past to the present on life in the Great Plains region. Guests will have two hours of free-reign to explore the museum space. December 16. Admission, free. discovermgp.org

If you’ve ever wished your personal demons a date with the firing squad, well, you’re not the first one to have that idea. For years El Reno’s Fort Reno has been shooting off the Christmas Guns in observance of the old German tradition of blasting away bad spirits by cannon fire in preparation for the holiday. In addition to bringing in the Christmas season with a bang, guests can also enjoy German folk tales, snacks, a chili meal, and even a visit from Santa. Just make sure you watch where you stand. December 16. Admission, free. fortreno.org

El Reno's historic Fort Reno hosts its annual shooting of the Christmas Guns, in accordance to an old German tradition. Photo courtesy Ron Stahl / Oklahoma Tourism)

If you’re reading this, you probably enjoy a good day trip. Holiday gift shopping can get in the way of potential travel time, but those who embark on Christmas on the Trail can gather unique gifts for loved ones while also getting to know Hughes County in south-central Oklahoma. Start the day with a pancake breakfast at Granny’s Garden in Calvin, then head to stops at Atwood, Holdenville, Wetumka, and more to peruse through businesses like Rocky Top Winery, Granny's Garden, Okie Trading Post Antiques & More, The Wylie Coyote. December 16. Admission, free. facebook.com/grannygardencalvinok

A lot of towns hold their Christmas celebrations at the beginning of December. That’s great, but sometimes you need a dose of hometown, Hallmark-style Christmas a little close to the actual day. The Sapulpa Christmas Parade of Lights through downtown Sapulpa might be just what you’re looking for. In addition to the parade celebration, which traces its origins in Sapulpa back nearly a hundred years, visitors can spirited seasonal tunes from live marching and an official visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. December 16. Admission, free. business.sapulpachamber.com

The Sapulpa Christmas Parade of Lights is bringing Hallmark-style cheer to the holiday season. Photo courtesy Sheri Ishmael-Waldrop / Sapulpa Chamber of Commerce

Written By

Ben Luschen

Luschen joined the *Oklahoma Today*’ staff as Research Editor in 2021 and currently works as the magazine's Web Editor, managing the website and social media fronts. His past *Oklahoma Today* stories have ranged in content from the state's bee and quail industries to its vibrant art and music scenes. Not adverse to a road trip, Luschen is always on the lookout for the next big adventure. He is never out of opinions about the current state of Oklahoma City Thunder basketball.