A Better Life OKC Blog

This week in OKC (June 16-22, 2026)

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Summer is in full swing across Oklahoma City, and the week ahead offers plenty of ways to get out and explore. From Juneteenth celebrations and outdoor concerts to classic cars and after-hours experiences at the Zoo, these events highlight the people, places, and traditions that make OKC unique. Whether you're looking for a family outing, a night with friends, or something completely different, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of the season.

6th Annual Juneteenth Food Truck Friday
June 19 | 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Kerr Park

Juneteenth Food Truck Friday returns for its sixth year, bringing together food, community and local entrepreneurship in the heart of downtown OKC. Hosted by the Bigger Than Food Foundation, the free event highlights Black-owned food trucks and vendors while celebrating culture, connection and community.

Why go:

Support Black-owned food trucks and local vendors

Celebrate Juneteenth through food, music and community

Discover new local businesses and entrepreneurs

Good to know:

Free to attend

Features eight Black-owned food trucks and retail vendors

Sip & Stroll: PRIDE Night
June 19 | 6-10 p.m. | Oklahoma City Zoo

The Oklahoma City Zoo's adults-only Sip & Stroll series returns Friday with a special PRIDE Night celebration. Guests ages 21 and older can explore the Zoo after hours while enjoying drinks, food and entertainment, including a drag performance.

A portion of every ticket sold supports the Zoo's Round Up for Conservation initiative.

Why go:

Experience the Zoo after hours without the crowds

Enjoy drinks and food throughout the park

Celebrate PRIDE Month with a special drag performance

Support wildlife conservation efforts

Good to know:

Guests must be 21 or older with a valid ID

Advance food and beverage packages are available

Wheeler Summer Concert Series
June 19 | 7-10 p.m. | Wheeler Ferris Wheel

The Wheeler Summer Concert Series returns Friday night with live music, food trucks and Ferris wheel rides along the Oklahoma River. The family-friendly event invites guests to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening outdoors while local musicians take the stage.

This month's lineup features performances from Larissa, Call Me Sparrow and Lee Hernan.

Why go:

Enjoy live music from local artists

Grab dinner from food trucks and concessions

Take a ride on the iconic Wheeler Ferris Wheel

Spend a summer evening outdoors with friends and family

Good to know:

Free to attend

Bring a blanket or lawn chair

Ferris wheel rides available for purchase

Motors in the Alley
June 21 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Parlor OKC

Looking for a low-key way to spend a Sunday morning? Motors in the Alley brings together car enthusiasts and casual spectators for a relaxed gathering featuring classic cars, exotics, imports, muscle cars and custom builds in the heart of Automobile Alley.

Grab lunch from Parlor OKC, stroll through the lineup and enjoy one of downtown's most unique community meetups.

Why go:

Browse a diverse lineup of vehicles

Enjoy a relaxed Sunday outing downtown

Grab food and drinks from Parlor OKC

Family and dog-friendly atmosphere

Good to know:

Free and open to the public

First-come, first-served parking

The Great Race
June 22 | 4-7 p.m. | Stockyards City

More than 130 vintage vehicles will roll into Stockyards City as part of The Great Race, a cross-country rally featuring classic cars built in 1974 and earlier. Arriving one minute apart along Exchange Avenue, the vehicles will transform the district into a moving showcase of automotive history.

The free event gives visitors a chance to get up close to everything from brass-era automobiles to mid-century classics while exploring one of Oklahoma City's most historic neighborhoods.

Why go:

See more than 130 vintage vehicles up close

Experience a unique piece of automotive history

Meet drivers and navigators from across the country

Explore Stockyards City and its Western heritage

Good to know:

Free and family-friendly

Cars will arrive along Exchange Avenue throughout the event

Features vehicles built in 1974 and earlier

Looking for even more ways to explore Oklahoma City? Check out Visit OKC's events calendar for additional concerts, festivals, family activities and local experiences happening throughout the metro this summer.

Beyond Brunch: Ways to Celebrate Father's Day Weekend in OKC

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Father's Day is Sunday, June 21, and Oklahoma City offers plenty of ways to celebrate beyond the traditional gift exchange. Whether dad enjoys great food, outdoor adventures, live music or a little friendly competition, there are several Father's Day events happening across the metro throughout the weekend.

Take dad on a Father's Day Cruise

For families looking to spend time on the water, Oklahoma River Cruises is hosting a special Father's Day Cruise on Sunday. Guests can enjoy views of the Oklahoma River while celebrating with family in a unique setting that offers a different perspective of downtown Oklahoma City.

Raise a Glass at a Father's Day Old Fashioned Experience

For dads who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail, Sailor & The Dock is hosting a Father's Day Old Fashioned Experience. The event explores specialty ingredients and flavor profiles while giving participants the opportunity to enjoy a Father's Day-themed tasting experience in Oklahoma City's growing food and beverage scene.

Enjoy a Father's Day BBQ at OKANA

OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark is celebrating Father's Day with a barbecue experience designed for the whole family. The event includes a buffet-style meal, family activities and opportunities to spend time together at one of Oklahoma City's newest entertainment destinations.

Rock Out at The Jones Assembly

Live music fans can celebrate Father's Day with Yacht Rock Father's Day at The Jones Assembly. Featuring music, brunch and a laid-back atmosphere, the event offers a fun option for dads who would rather spend the holiday listening to live entertainment than sitting through a traditional family meal.

Compete in Dad Games at Dave & Buster's

Families looking for a little competition can head to Dave & Buster's for Dad Games, where participants can challenge one another through games and activities designed to celebrate Father's Day. It's a family-friendly option that combines entertainment, food and a little bragging-rights competition.

Make a Weekend of It

Beyond Father's Day-specific events, Oklahoma City offers plenty of opportunities to spend time together throughout the weekend. Families can catch an Oklahoma City Comets game at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, explore the city's museums and attractions, enjoy outdoor recreation along the Oklahoma River or visit one of the many local restaurants offering Father's Day specials.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Father's Day weekend offers plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories with family while exploring everything Oklahoma City has to offer.

Celebrate Juneteenth on the East in Oklahoma City's East End District

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Juneteenth on the East returns June 18-21, bringing four days of music, culture, art and community celebration to Oklahoma City's historic East End District.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Texas learned they were free. Today, communities across the country honor the holiday through celebrations that recognize freedom, resilience and Black culture.

Produced by With Love OKC and local community leaders, including Jabee and the Oklahoma Mural Syndicate, Juneteenth on the East transforms NE 23rd Street into a community gathering space filled with local vendors, live entertainment, food and family activities.

Event Schedule

Creative Panel at Innovation Hall
Thursday, June 18
Hear from artists, creators and community leaders during a discussion focused on culture, creativity and community impact.

Juneteenth 5K Run/Walk
Friday, June 19
Start the holiday with a community run celebrating wellness, connection and freedom.

Juneteenth on the East Festival
Saturday, June 20 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The signature daytime festival features:

Vendor marketplace

Food trucks

Live music and DJs

Kids zone

3-on-3 youth basketball

Community programming throughout the day

Juneteenth Concert at the Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheatre
Saturday, June 20 | 6-10 p.m.
Doors open at 5 p.m.

Featured performers include:

Headliner: Lupe Fiasco

OK All-Star Marching Band

Youth dance groups

Local artists

Community awards

Free tickets are available with RSVP, and VIP ticket options are available.

Sunday Dinner at Innovation Hall
Sunday, June 21
Close out the weekend with a community meal and celebration.

Juneteenth on the East offers a chance to celebrate history, support local businesses and experience one of Oklahoma City's most vibrant community events.

How Oklahoma City Became the State Capital

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Today, it's hard to imagine Oklahoma's capital being anywhere other than Oklahoma City. But for the first few years after statehood, the capital was actually located in Guthrie.

When Oklahoma became the 46th state in 1907, Guthrie inherited its role as the territorial capital. The arrangement was supposed to last until Oklahomans selected a permanent capital through a future vote. Instead, the decision came much sooner.

On June 11, 1910, voters across the state chose Oklahoma City as Oklahoma's new capital. The move reflected the city's rapid growth following the Land Run of 1889 and its emergence as the state's largest population center.

The transition quickly became part of Oklahoma lore. A popular legend claims Gov. Charles Haskell secretly traveled to Guthrie under the cover of darkness and stole the state seal before bringing it to Oklahoma City. While the real story is less dramatic, the seal was officially transferred by order of the governor, and state government temporarily operated from Oklahoma City's Huckins Hotel until the Capitol building was completed in 1917.

More than a century later, that decision continues to shape Oklahoma's future. From its beginnings as a town founded in a single day during the Land Run to becoming the political and economic center of the state, Oklahoma City's rise reflects the ambition and determination that still define the city today.

Things to Do This Week in OKC (June 9-17, 2026)

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Summer is heating up in Oklahoma City, and the week ahead offers plenty of opportunities to explore the city's creative, entrepreneurial and Western roots. Whether you're looking for a weekend outing, a cultural experience or a chance to support local businesses, there's something happening across OKC.

deadCenter Film Festival

June 10–14 | Downtown Oklahoma City

Oklahoma's largest film festival returns to downtown OKC for five days of screenings, filmmaker discussions and special events. deadCenter attracts filmmakers and movie lovers from across the country while highlighting Oklahoma's growing presence in the film industry.

Why go:

Experience independent films before they reach wider audiences
Support Oklahoma's creative community
Enjoy a unique downtown experience

Braum's Affair of the Heart

June 12–14 | OKC Fairgrounds

One of Oklahoma's favorite shopping events returns with hundreds of vendors offering handmade goods, home décor, fashion, specialty foods and more. It's the perfect opportunity to discover unique finds while supporting small businesses and local makers.

Why go:

Shop one-of-a-kind products
Support entrepreneurs and artisans
Great for a girls' day out or weekend outing

NRHA Derby

June 10–21 | OKC Fairgrounds

The National Reining Horse Association Derby brings some of the world's best horses and riders to Oklahoma City. As one of the premier events in the sport, the Derby showcases the skill, precision and athleticism that make reining one of the most exciting Western competitions to watch.

Why go:

Experience a signature Oklahoma City event
See elite riders and horses compete
Celebrate OKC's Western heritage

Summer Movie Nights

Select Dates Throughout the Week | Various Locations

Outdoor movie series are underway across the metro, offering family-friendly entertainment under the stars. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks and enjoy a summer evening with friends and family.

Why go:

Free or low-cost entertainment
Family-friendly atmosphere
A classic summer tradition

Explore OKC's Trails and Parks

Any Day This Week | Throughout Oklahoma City

With longer daylight hours and warm summer weather, it's a great time to explore Oklahoma City's extensive trail system, neighborhood parks and outdoor spaces. Whether you're walking, biking or simply enjoying the scenery, there's no shortage of ways to get outside.

Why go:

Enjoy Oklahoma City's outdoor amenities
Easy and budget-friendly activity
Great way to stay active and unwind

From independent films and local shopping to Western sports and outdoor adventures, this week showcases the many experiences that make Oklahoma City a great place to live, work and play.

The District Powering Oklahoma City's Future

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

For much of its history, Oklahoma City's growth was driven by energy, transportation and entrepreneurship. Today, another force is helping shape the city's future: innovation.

Located just east of downtown, the Oklahoma City Innovation District has become one of the region's most important hubs for research, technology and collaboration. The 1.3-square-mile district brings together healthcare institutions, bioscience organizations, entrepreneurs, aerospace companies and educational partners in a single ecosystem designed to spark new ideas and create economic opportunity.

The district was created after research by the Brookings Institution identified Oklahoma City as uniquely positioned to compete in the innovation economy. City leaders recognized an opportunity to connect existing strengths in healthcare, aerospace, technology and energy while creating new pathways for business growth and job creation.

Today, the district supports thousands of jobs and continues to attract investment. MAPS 4 funding is helping advance projects that support entrepreneurship, small business development and collaboration among industries that are shaping the economy of tomorrow.

Just as the Land Run, statehood and MAPS transformed Oklahoma City in previous generations, the Innovation District represents another chapter in the city's evolution—one focused on ideas, talent and opportunity. It's a reminder that Oklahoma City's story has always been about looking ahead while building on a strong foundation.

Pride Month celebrations return across Oklahoma City

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Pride Month is bringing a full calendar of celebrations, performances and community events to Oklahoma City throughout June, with thousands expected to attend festivities across the metro.

Why it matters: Annual Pride events have become some of Oklahoma City’s largest community celebrations, drawing visitors from across the state and region while highlighting the city’s growing reputation as an inclusive destination.

One of the month’s signature events is Oklahoma PrideFest, hosted by the Oklahoma Pride Alliance at Scissortail Park in downtown Oklahoma City. The three-day festival returns June 26-28 and marks the sixth year the organization has hosted the celebration in downtown OKC.

PrideFest facts:

PrideFest welcomed a record-breaking 45,000 visitors in 2023.

The festival features local, national and international entertainment.

Visitors travel from across Oklahoma and neighboring states to attend.

The event creates space for LGBTQ+ residents, visitors and allies to gather while showcasing Oklahoma City’s arts, culture and downtown energy.

Another major celebration, OKC Pride on 39th Street, returns June 5-7 in the city’s historic 39th Street District.

The history:

OKC Pride has organized Oklahoma City’s annual Pride celebration since 1988.

Organizers formally established nonprofit OKC Pride, Inc. in 2004.

The event has grown into the largest privately held event in Oklahoma.

Tens of thousands of visitors travel from Oklahoma and surrounding states to attend each year.

Additional Pride Month events are taking place across multiple OKC districts throughout June.

Pride on 9th takes place June 6 in Automobile Alley and will feature a Pride Artist Market with more than 40 local vendors, outdoor music performances and extended hours at Factory Obscura’s immersive Mix-Tape experience.

Pride! On the Plaza returns to the Plaza District on June 12 with live entertainment, drag performances, music and community celebrations as the district transforms into one of the city’s largest Pride block parties.

Pride Month celebrations have become both a cultural tradition and an economic driver for Oklahoma City, bringing increased tourism, visibility and community engagement during one of the city’s busiest summer event seasons.

A Guide to the Oklahoma City Streetcar

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This story originally appeared on VisitOKC.

The Oklahoma City Streetcar debuted in December 2018 as a downtown transportation solution to make several districts more accessible to visitors. The beautiful green, blue and pink cars – colors inspired by our iconic redbud trees, as well as blue sky and Bermuda grass – connect visitors to hotels, dining and attractions throughout Downtown, Bricktown, Automobile Alley and Midtown.

The streetcar operates with seven cars on two loops, seven days a week. With 22 platforms on the 4.86-mile loop, passengers only need to walk a couple of blocks to find a platform. The streetcar is free to ride from Jan. 5 until July 5, 2026, at which point passes are available for purchase on each platform or by using Embark’s mobile fare app. Day passes are $3 and single-use tickets are $1. Children under 6 ride free, and rates are halved for seniors, children and youth ages 7-17, as well as passengers with a qualifying disability.

Bricktown has a dedicated loop that runs from the Myriad Gardens to East Bricktown every 12-15 minutes (6 a.m. - 2 a.m. on Fridays, 7 a.m. - 2 a.m. on Saturdays and 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Sundays) along Reno and Sheridan avenues. The Downtown loop overlaps the Bricktown loop, and service begins at 6 a.m. Monday through Friday, making it convenient to get to morning business meetings. Streetcars arrive at Downtown platforms every 12-15 minutes. Use the route map to plan your ride. Here’s a quick guide to what you’ll find along the way!

THE BRICKTOWN PLATFORMS (1-3, 21-22)

The Bricktown Loop consists of nine platforms, with platform 1 in East Bricktown. That’s where you’ll find Bass Pro Shops, Toby Keith’s “I Love This Bar” & Grill, Charleston’s, Truck Yard and the Criterion, a 4,000-capacity venue for concerts. It also provides easy access to the historic Deep Deuce District, once home to OKC’s jazz scene.

Platform 2 is adjacent to the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, where you can catch an OKC Comets game! The Comets are the AAA affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Bricktown Canal, with its mix of family entertainment and restaurants, is also close, as is the plaza around Harkins Theater and the city’s newest public art installation, Cloud Embrace.

Catch a movie, eat tacos at Fuzzy’s or stroll the canal. You’ll find games for all ages at Brickopolis Entertainment, which, along with Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse — one of the metro’s outstanding prime steakhouses — is just a half block north of the platform.

Number 3 is part of the transit network; it’s a stop right by the Santa Fe rail depot, but it’s also close to Pinkitzel, one of OKC’s most popular candy shops, which carries a wild and colorful selection of candies, cupcakes and chocolates.

On the Sheridan Avenue side of Bricktown are platforms 21 and 22. This is the traditional entrance to Bricktown and an introduction to what’s in store for visitors. Beautiful murals adorn the underpass, and restaurants and shops line Sheridan.

Here you’ll find Painted Door gift boutique, with a great selection of Oklahoma products, decorative accessories, home furnishings, gourmet foods, bath and body care, fragrant candles, children’s clothing and more. Down the block is Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, Pearls’ Crabtown and the American Banjo Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of banjos on public display.

THE THUNDER PLATFORMS (4-6, 20)

That’s not really the name, but platform 4 is sure to be one of the busiest on the loop, as it’s situated in front of Paycom Center, home to the 2025 NBA Champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Number 5 is the southernmost platform and gives you easy access to the Convention Center, Omni Oklahoma City Hotel, with Bob’s Steak and Chop House and Scissortail Park. On the northern edge of the park, you’ll find Spark, a favorite burger joint among locals.

Number 6 is the Myriad Gardens platform, a popular year-round destination. The gardens are a 15-acre botanical retreat in the middle of the city. The landscaping is changed seasonally for maximum greenery and blossoms. The Inasmuch Crystal Bridge is home to more than 700 species of plants. In the winter, the splash pad next to the restaurant is converted into an ice-skating rink.

The Century Center at platform 20 is home to Mahogany Prime Steakhouse, a popular fine dining establishment with great pre- and post-game bar crowds. Directly across the street is the Colcord Hotel, OKC’s oldest hotel, built in 1909. Flint, an excellent brunch spot, is on the ground floor. Down a causeway is the entrance to the Devon Tower, with Vast, a top-of-the-city fine dining restaurant, on the 49th floor, which also has a cocktail lounge and bar if you just want drinks with a view.

THE BUSINESS DISTRICT PLATFORMS (7-9, 18-19)

Number 7 is adjacent to the downtown library and a short walk to business destinations. Just west of the platform is the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, home to the beautiful glass artwork of Dale Chihuly. The Civic Center is one more block north. You’re also just a few blocks from some of the city’s best Italian cuisine at Patrono, as well as burgers at Bar Arbolada and latte art at Clarity Coffee.

Platform 8 is the connector for access to Embark’s bus routes, located on the edge of Midtown and just a short two blocks from Elemental Coffee, Tamashii Ramen and The Collective food hall. You can also find outstanding modern Vietnamese food at Riviere Modern Banh Mi just across the street from Elemental.

Both 9 and 18 are adjacent to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, one of our state’s most popular and meaningful destinations. Tour the museum, walk the grounds, view the interactive screens and see how our beautiful city responded to tragedy with spirit and strength.

Platform 19 is near Kerr Park, the Skirvin Hotel and Leadership Square. It’s a short walk from Kitchen 324, one of the city’s favorite brunch restaurants. Some of OKC’s recent James Beard semifinalists can also be found nearby, as Naija Wife and Plus254 — both specializing in regional African cuisines — are located in the subterranean food court in the Robinson Renaissance Building.

THE AUTOMOBILE ALLEY PLATFORMS (10-12)

Situated on historic Automobile Alley on North Robinson Avenue, these three platforms are convenient to Hideaway Pizza, Red Primesteak, Sidecar Bar and ZamZam Mediterranean Grill. You can grab local brews at Prairie Artisan Ales or head upstairs to SoundBar, a record shop and listening lounge above ZamZam. Iguana Mexican Grill, known as the “little taco stand by the railroad tracks,” is also nearby.

For art enthusiasts, Platform 12 is your jumping-off point for Factory Obscura’s Mix-Tape, an immersive experience inspired by Meow Wolf, with Oklahoma Contemporary just steps away in a building that’s a destination in its own right. You’ll find a stunning mix of contemporary art and community spaces, as well as a cafe.

THE MIDTOWN PLATFORMS (13-16)

Other than the Bricktown platforms, the Midtown leg has the most dining and entertainment options. You’ll find modern Italian at Stella and a celestial-inspired speakeasy, Lunar Lounge, in the Midtown Plaza Court Building. Pop up to O Bar, the Ambassador’s rooftop bar, and get a craft cocktail with a view of the downtown skyline from the balcony.

McNellie’s Pub is just off the number 14 platform. The popular beer mecca has 300 selections and a solid menu of pub food, burgers and entrees. For wine and cocktails, Le Parisien is an artsy and authentic French bistro right across the street. If shopping is your thing, Platform 14 also drops you close to Wishbone Vintage, Chirps & Cheers, Barkeep and several other shops and boutiques.

Neighborhood Jam is a brunch destination, as is contemporary Southern food spot Lorena. A popular indie bookstore, Commonplace, is at the north edge of Midtown, too, right next to another location of Clarity Coffee.

A convenient way to explore downtown, and free for half the year, the OKC Streetcar makes it easy to access the city’s top attractions and restaurants all year long. Start planning your trip today!

Things to do this week in OKC (June 2-8, 2026)

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

From championship softball and outdoor concerts to immersive art and local markets, Oklahoma City’s first full week of June is packed with ways to get out and enjoy the start of summer. Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a creative night out or a chance to explore something new, there’s plenty happening across the metro.

NCAA Women’s College World Series

June 3-5 | Devon Park

The NCAA Women’s College World Series championship series returns to Oklahoma City this week, bringing the nation’s top softball programs to Devon Park for one of the city’s biggest annual sporting events.

Oklahoma City has hosted the championship nearly every year since 1990, helping establish the city as the longtime home of collegiate softball. Fans visiting for the tournament can also explore attractions throughout the Adventure District while in town.

Championship series schedule:

Wednesday, June 3 — Game 1 at 7 p.m.

Thursday, June 4 — Game 2 at 7 p.m.

Friday, June 5 — Game 3 at 7 p.m. (if necessary)

Tickets for the championship series games are still available.

Why go:

One of OKC’s signature annual sporting events

Electric championship atmosphere

Opportunity to see the best teams in college softball

Great opportunity to explore the Adventure District

Formless Matter and Its Devastating Gestures

Ongoing | Campbell Art Park at Oklahoma Contemporary

A new large-scale outdoor installation at Oklahoma Contemporary is transforming Campbell Art Park into an immersive art experience centered on storytelling, symbolism and discovery.

Created by Oklahoma City artists Denise Duong and Gabriel Friedman, Formless Matter and Its Devastating Gestures features six monumental sculptural forms, including a towering human head, an outstretched hand and four birdlike structures visitors can walk through and explore.

The installation blends sculpture, hidden visual details and interactive elements to create a space designed for reflection, curiosity and connection.

Why go:

Free outdoor art experience

Interactive sculptures visitors can walk through

Features work from two Oklahoma City artists

Great addition to a visit to Oklahoma Contemporary

Drop In & Create Open Studio

Ongoing | Pinot’s Palette, Bricktown

Looking for a low-pressure creative outing? Pinot’s Palette in Bricktown is hosting open studio sessions where guests can paint, create candles or work on personal art projects at their own pace.

The relaxed, walk-in experience allows visitors to drop in between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, with optional video and printed instructions available for beginners. Guests can choose from several canvas and wood painting options or even bring their own projects to work on in the studio.

The venue also offers a full bar menu with wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks.

Why go:

Beginner-friendly creative experience

Flexible drop-in format

Fun option for a date or group outing

Create custom artwork or candles to take home

Summer Concert Series

June 6, 8 p.m. | Scissortail Park

Scissortail Park’s Summer Concert Series returns this weekend with an evening of live music under the downtown skyline. Saturday’s performance, Summer of Soul, begins at 8 p.m. on the Love’s Travel Stops Great Lawn.

The free summer series brings together a mix of musical styles throughout the season, including symphonic performances, jazz, soul and festival-style concerts. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs and friends for a relaxed evening outdoors.

Why go:

Free live music in downtown OKC

Great outdoor summer atmosphere

Easy group outing or date night

One of the city’s signature seasonal events

Pop-Up Market

June 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | NW 10th & Hudson

Shop local this weekend at the Pop-Up Market, a one-day open-air shopping event featuring more than 60 Oklahoma makers, artists and small businesses.

Held at the corner of NW 10th Street and Hudson Avenue, the market will include everything from vintage goods and women’s clothing to handmade art, books, leather products and other locally made finds. The event is organized by the Independent Shopkeepers Association, the team behind Oklahoma City’s Holiday Pop-Up Shops.

Why go:

Support local businesses and makers

Find unique gifts and vintage items

Browse a wide variety of local vendors

Great way to spend a Saturday afternoon

Whether you’re cheering on a national champion, discovering local art or spending the weekend outdoors, this week’s lineup offers plenty of ways to experience Oklahoma City.

Memorial Day Weekend in OKC

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This story originally appeared on VisitOKC.

From attractions to outdoor fun, there's so many exciting ways to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend with your friends and family in Oklahoma City!

Festivals in OKC

In the Paseo Arts District, more than 85 visual artists, live performers and food vendors will fill the streets for the Paseo Arts Festival, showcasing Oklahoma original artwork of all kinds. Stop by the annual Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for a Western good time – butter making, bandana decorating, Western reenactments and more.

OKC Attractions

This holiday weekend, enjoy some of OKC's top attractions. Come to remember at the Oklahoma City National Memorial, or see the city's wildest residents at the Oklahoma City Zoo. The exciting features of RIVERSPORT Rapids & Adventures will also be making their summer debut – just be sure to check their website for reservation information first! From Memorial Day to Labor Day, soak up the sun at OKANA Beach, a nearly 200,000 sq. ft. outdoor paradise with ziplines, a sandy beach and an adults-only swim-up bar. Watch the OKC Comets play ball at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, followed by fireworks!

Outdoor Recreation

Summer is just beginning, making it the perfect time to opt outdoors and experience Oklahoma City's lakes, parks and trails. Get on the water with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental in the Boathouse District, or rent a paddleboat from the Scissortail Park boathouse. For fun on foot or wheels, check out Myriad Botanical Gardens, Martin Nature Park or Bluff Creek Trail. Cruise OKC’s stretch of historic Route 66, home to iconic landmarks, modern attractions and destination dining along the Mother Road.