City of Norman welcomes community to 2024 holiday festivities in December

For the first time in Norman's Winterfesthistory, all the evening's events will take place downtown on December 7, culminating in the lighting of a brand-new, 36-foot tree and a stunning drone show.

"By bringing the celebration to downtown, we're really hoping to centralize it for all of Norman," said Mitchell Richardson, Recreation Manager for the City of Norman Parks & Recreation Department. "We're able to concentrate it into one citywide celebration."

At 6 p.m., the Norman Christmas Holiday Paradewill begin, setting out from Norman High School at Main Street and Pickard and finishing at James Garner Avenue in front of the railroad tracks. Dotting the parade route will be DJ booths to provide music and holiday cheer. More than 40 groups are set to join the parade with floats.

At 7 p.m., as the parade concludes, the downtown area will come alive with the sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season.

Food trucks and vendors will be available to event goers, as well as photo and craft opportunities, games, music, cocoa and cookies. An opening statement from Mayor Larry Heikkila will precede the lighting of the tree and it will be followed by a synchronized, holiday-themed drone show. Entertainment will include songs from the children of Wilson Elementary, performances by the McFarlin United Methodist Church Ringers, a musical performance from the Sooner Theatre's cast of A Christmas Story, and a performance by the Talk of the Town orchestra.

"The holiday also wouldn't be complete without Storytime with the Grinch and pictures with Santa, so we can look forward to that as well," Richardson said, "we hope everyone comes out to join us with family and friends!"

Various road closures will occur in Downtown Norman on December 7 to accommodate for events; motorists should drive with caution in the area if it cannot be avoided and adhere to all signage placed.

UGLY SWEATER RUN INFORMATION

The annual Ugly Sweater 5k or Fun Runwill take place at 9 a.m. on December 14 at Legacy Park, located in the University North Park District. The first 250 runners will receive a magic color-changing medal, and all runners will receive a custom bib, a timing chip for 5k runners. Runners will also be able to purchase a long-sleeved, dry-fit, color-changing shirt that matches the medals.

Event goers can enter an Ugly Sweater Contest at the run as well, and prizes will be given for the Best Individual Ugly Sweater and the Best Team/Family.

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