Memorial Day weekend brings one of the busiest stretches of spring event season to Oklahoma City, with live theater, outdoor festivals, local art and family-friendly experiences happening across the metro.
The Wiz
May 19–24 | Civic Center Music Hall
The Tony Award-winning musical The Wiz heads to Oklahoma City for a week-long Broadway run, bringing a fresh take on The Wizard of Oz through a soundtrack rooted in soul, gospel, rock and ‘70s funk.
The production features choreography from JaQuel Knight, known for Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies” and Black Is King, along with direction from Schele Williams and additional material from Amber Ruffin.
Why go:
- Fresh Broadway revival of a classic musical
- High-energy choreography and modern staging
- Strong option for a downtown night out
Good to know:
- Multiple performances scheduled May 19–24
- Part of the Broadway in OKC series
Fourth Fridays in West Village OKC
May 22 | West Village District
West Village launches its monthly Fourth Fridays series this month, bringing live music, sidewalk activities, pop-up markets and extended hours to the growing downtown district. The recurring series runs monthly through October.
Why go:
- Easy Friday night outing downtown
- Live music and pop-up shopping
- Chance to explore one of OKC’s growing districts
Good to know:
- Runs from 6 to 10 p.m.
- Free and family-friendly
Breakfast with the Animals
May 23 | Oklahoma City Zoo
The Oklahoma City Zoo’s Breakfast with the Animals series continues with a special morning experience inside Expedition Africa. Guests can enjoy breakfast overlooking the African Savanna while learning more about the Zoo’s animals through encounters and educational programming.
A portion of every ticket sold supports gorilla conservation efforts.
Why go:
- Unique breakfast experience at the Zoo
- Animal encounters and educational activities
- Patio seating overlooking the savanna
Good to know:
- Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.
- Indoor and outdoor seating available, weather permitting
The Longest Stretch: Route 66 in Oklahoma
Now open | Oklahoma History Center
The Oklahoma History Center’s new exhibit, The Longest Stretch: Route 66 in Oklahoma, explores how the state’s more than 400 drivable miles of Route 66 shaped communities across Oklahoma and continues to attract travelers today.
Major artifacts include a 1915 Model T Roadster, a restored Taft Stadium sign, a Big Boy statue and a 1961 Corvette on loan from the National Corvette Museum.
Why go:
- Timely look at Route 66 ahead of its centennial
- Historic vehicles and roadside artifacts on display
- Interactive elements throughout the exhibit
Good to know:
- Open Monday through Saturday
- Included with regular museum admission
49th Annual Paseo Arts Festival
May 23–25 | Paseo Arts District
The Paseo Arts Festival returns Memorial Day weekend for its 49th year, bringing more than 60,000 visitors to the Paseo Arts District for one of OKC’s signature arts events.
The festival features visual artists from across the country, more than 50 live performers across two stages and a large food court with more than 20 vendors.
Why go:
- One of OKC’s biggest annual arts festivals
- Live music, local food and original artwork
- Great way to explore the Paseo Arts District
Good to know:
- Free to attend
- Shuttle parking available throughout the weekend
- Family-friendly event
From Broadway performances and outdoor festivals to Route 66 history and Zoo experiences, Oklahoma City’s late-May calendar offers plenty of ways to kick off Memorial Day weekend.
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