🎄 Oklahoma Christmas Guide: Traditions, Lights, & Festive Fun!
Release Date: 12/15/2025
Civil War Living History at Har-Ber Village & the New OKANA Resort in OKC
Only in OKlahoma Show
From the 1860s to a $400 million modern oasis, we’re covering the best of Oklahoma’s "then and now" in this episode! Part 1: Step Back in Time at Har-Ber Village Museum We’re heading to the shores of Grand Lake O' the Cherokees in Grove, OK, for Civil War Era Historical Days. Discover the fascinating history of Har-Ber Village, founded by Harvey and Bernice Jones, which evolved from a private retreat into a six-acre pioneer settlement with over 100 exhibits. Highlights include: Living History: Union and Confederate camps, blacksmithing, and open-hearth cooking. The Conflict in Indian...
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Oklahoma Travel: Luxury Cabins in Broken Bow and Historic Dining at Carletti's OKC
Only in OKlahoma Show
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we’re traveling from the serene canopy of the Kiamichi Mountains to a revived 1930s speakeasy in Oklahoma City. First, we explore Mount Mirabelle, a luxury cabin in Hochatown that feels like a romantic movie set, complete with cathedral ceilings and sunset views. Then, we head to OKC to visit Carletti’s, where a 200-year-old Bolognese recipe is being served inside a historic hillside building once known for its "shady" nightlife. Part 1: The Ultimate Romantic Getaway – Mount Mirabelle Looking for a "workcation" spot or a romantic escape? We’re...
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Tulsa’s #1 Park & The Toby Keith Expressway | Only in OK
Only in OKlahoma Show
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we are exploring the crown jewel of the 918 and a massive new tribute to an Oklahoma music legend. Part 1: The Power of Tulsa – Gathering Place We dive into why Gathering Place was recently voted the #1 City Park in the Nation for 2024 by USA TODAY. From the vision of the George Kaiser Family Foundation to its mission of unifying Tulsa across all zip codes, find out what makes this $465 million gift so special. The Bloom Watch: Learn about the 70+ cherry blossom trees expected to hit full bloom March 20–23. Adventure Awaits: We break down the...
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Exploring Black Kettle National Grasslands & Norman’s New Waterfront Dining | Only In OK
Only in OKlahoma Show
Today, we’re showing you why Roger Mills County is home to a "prairie masterpiece." We’re diving deep into the Black Kettle National Grasslands, a sprawling 30,000-acre network of untouched beauty that’s part of a massive 1.9-million-acre "sky island" system managed by the Cibola National Forest. From the soul-stirring big skies of Western Oklahoma to the somber history of Peace Chief Black Kettle and the Washita Battlefield, this episode covers the ecological recovery of the "Dirty Thirties" and the best ways to enjoy the land today. In the first half, we discuss: The "Sky Islands":...
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Chef Scott Conant, Damaris Phillips at Choctaw Pocola & IKEA is Coming to Oklahoma!
Only in OKlahoma Show
From world-class culinary takeovers to the biggest retail news in decades, Oklahoma’s food and shopping scenes are leveling up! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we’re recapping our incredible dining experience with Chef Scott Conant and giving you the inside scoop on the next big event at Seven Ponies. Plus, the rumors are true—IKEA is finally coming to the 918! Part 1: Culinary Stars at Choctaw Casino & Resort – Pocola We take you inside the Celebrity Chef Takeover at Seven Ponies. We recap the sophisticated flavors of Chef Scott Conant’s menu, from the Macaroni di...
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The Hidden $1M Pigeon Museum in OKC & Norman’s Student Heroes | Only in OK
Only in OKlahoma Show
Think pigeons are just "sky rats"? Think again. This week, we’re heading to 2300 NE 63rd St to explore the American Pigeon Museum & Heritage Center, a world-class facility hidden on 10 beautiful acres in Oklahoma City. From War Heroes like Cher Ami—the bird that saved a WWI battalion—to high-stakes Pigeon Racing athletes worth thousands of dollars, we’re diving into the fascinating (and surprisingly zen) world of these feathered veterans. You'll learn about "Rolling" competitions, birds with bell-bottom feet, and why the pigeon was actually the first domesticated bird in history....
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The Dusty, High-Octane History of Frontier City: From Boomtown to Six Flags HQ
Only in OKlahoma Show
The Wild West isn't just a theme—it’s a survival story. In this episode of Only in OK, we are diving deep into the dusty, high-octane history of Frontier City. This Oklahoma City icon isn't just a theme park; it’s a survivor that outlasted real estate developers, economic crashes, and even an F2 tornado. We explore how a 1957 state birthday exhibit became the secret headquarters of the global Six Flags empire while the rest of us were just waiting in line for the Silver Bullet. Whether you’re a rollercoaster nut or a fan of Oklahoma history, strap in—we’re going back to the Old...
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The 100-Square-Foot Mistake & Oklahoma's Most Adorable Small Towns
Only in OKlahoma Show
Is it a National Park or a clerical error? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley dive into the hilarious history of Guthrie’s "smallest National Park" and explores the most charming small towns across the Sooner State. The Typo That Made History: Guthrie’s Tiny Landmark Did you know Oklahoma is home to the smallest National Park landmark in the country? Well, technically. Located behind the Guthrie Post Office lies a 10x10 patch of land that exists solely because a city clerk in 1907 didn’t double-check their math. Instead of a "100-foot square" plot (10,000 sq. ft.),...
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Forget Big Bend! 🌵 Discover Oklahoma’s Secret Desert Wilderness
Only in OKlahoma Show
Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure? 🦬🏜️ In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we’re skipping the 8-hour drive to Texas and heading straight to the Charon Gardens Wilderness Area in the Wichita Mountains. If you’ve been dreaming of Big Bend’s rugged canyons and granite peaks, you won’t believe what’s waiting for you just west of Medicine Park. From "Crab Eyes" to scrambling up Elk Mountain, we break down why this 5,700-acre gem might actually be better than a National Park. After the break, we get serious about safety on Oklahoma roads. 🚔 The Oklahoma Highway...
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Shawnee’s Painted Horses
Only in OKlahoma Show
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we’re exploring the "public art gallery without walls" in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Discover the story behind the Painted Horses, a collection of nearly 40 life-sized fiberglass masterpieces scattered throughout the city. We talk about the project's origins with former Mayor Chuck Mills, the impact of the 2023 Shawnee tornado on the herd, and where you can find fan favorites like "Indian Blanket" and "Evening Star." It’s the perfect DIY scavenger hunt for your next Oklahoma road trip! After the break: We’re shifting gears to road safety. The Oklahoma...
info_outlineWelcome to "The Only in OK Show" definitive guide to Christmas time in Oklahoma! Hosts Brett and Harley take you on a festive journey through the Sooner State's unique holiday customs, events, and traditions.
What Makes Oklahoma's Christmas Unique?
Discover why Oklahoma holds a distinct reputation for its exceptional holiday celebrations:
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Christmas Customs & Traditions: Learn about widespread traditions like horse-drawn carriages featuring Santa and the unique, booming tradition of Christmas Gun Shooting (especially around Fort Reno), a custom inherited from German immigrants meant to dispel evil spirits. We discuss the historical significance and the importance of safety (ear protection advised!).
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Festive Performances: Explore where to catch the holiday classic "The Nutcracker," with performances by the Oklahoma City and Tulsa ballet companies, often featuring family treats like gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa. We also touch on other holiday-themed shows, including the famous Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
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Dazzling Light Displays: We cover the must-see holiday lights across the state, including the famous Chickasha Festival of Light (over 3 million lights!), Christmas in the Park in Elk City, Holiday Lights Spectacular in Midwest City, and the Garden of Lights in Muskogee.
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A Taste of Christmas Past: Step back in time with events like the Guthrie Territorial Christmas Celebration, which showcases ancient cultures and traditions in one of the largest historic preservation districts, and the Victorian Christmas in Claremore, featuring Victorian-garbed shopkeepers and living window displays.
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Holiday Shopping & Activities: We cover where to shop, from malls to downtown small towns and the "NorthPole city." Find out where to go ice skating in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Tulsa, and Chickasha.
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Oklahoma Holiday Staples: Dive into iconic Oklahoma Christmas experiences, from hearing the legendary BC Clark Jingle to sipping on Braum's Premium Egg Nog. We also mention Polar Express rides, and finding the perfect holiday centerpiece at Christmas Tree Farms and Lots.
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A Historic Christmas Dinner: Hear about how abundant game historically made meats like venison, buffalo, wild turkey, and more common choices for Christmas dinner, alongside popular modern options like roasted pig or ham.
And stick around until after the break... where we talk about Oklahoma building a really big bridge!
Tune in for the ultimate guide to celebrating the most wonderful time of the year, Oklahoma style!
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