Why You Should Visit McAlester this Christmas
| 9 Reasons to Visit McAlester this Christmas |
McAlester, Oklahoma is becoming a go-to spot for Christmas fun and Instagram-worthy shots. People flat out like Christmas in McAlester. So much that the town comes together to string over half a million lights and put the downtown displays together. “That’s part of the magic of McAlester during the holidays. The lights, the displays, the festive shops and events, they’re all spectacular. But, it’s the holiday spirit that’s really on display and people sense that,” said Billy Sumner, Tourism Manager for the City of McAlester.
McAlester’s joyful Christmas spirit is on full display throughout the community. Consider the large beautifully lit ornament that’s so big the entire family can sit inside for a photo, or the downtown sidewalk displays boasting of gingerbread houses and quirky Christmas trees decorated by city employees and local volunteers. Or, visit Mike Deak Field for a new holiday display that includes an enormous list wreath - the perfect backdrop for this year’s Christmas photo.
Book your trip to McAlester to soak up the Christmas magic. You’ll be glad you did and while you’re here, try our top 9 Christmas activities.
Christmas Activities in McAlester, Oklahoma |
#1 Take a Picture in Arvest Park
This magical light display features an enormous tree of lights surrounded by a field of decorated lit trees and festive holiday decor. Take a seat in Santa’s sleigh, or grab the family and sit inside the giant Christmas ornament (perfect for that Instagram photo). Stroll through more than a dozen fully decorated Christmas trees or pose with holiday displays such as Santa and his reindeer, snowmen or a gingerbread train – all lit to perfection. There’s no limit to your photo opportunities! Arvest Park is located at 2nd Street and Chickasaw Avenue in the historic downtown area. |
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#2 Go Christmas Shopping in a Traditional DowntownSkip the shopping mall this year for the enjoyment of Christmas shopping like it used to be. Stroll through McAlester’s downtown and pop into shops full of unique and special treasures. Local shop owners are already decorating for the holiday season with stores like the Olive Branch selling Christmas décor as well. To really get in on the fun, visit stores to save on Black Friday and for Small Business Saturday on November, 27th. Then, take a break from shopping and grab a bite at a local cafe or winery. Oh - and as you shop, collect your tickets and if you're lucky, win cash and prizes during our $10,000 drawing! |
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#3 Wave at Santa During the Country Christmas Parade |
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#4 Half a Million Lights on Display for All to See Over half a million lights are strung along a mile long strip of Carl Albert Parkway (Hwy 270). These are interactive displays that include things like toy soldiers, snowmen, army men and so much more! Bonus - it’s totally free to see! |
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#5 Breathe In the Fresh Pine Scent While Chopping Your Own Tree or Buying a Fresh Wreath
McAlester’s Red Barn Christmas Tree Farm is the perfect spot to bundle up and breathe in the fresh aromatic scent of Virginia Pine and White Pine trees. Wonder through rows of trees hunting for the perfect one to cut, take home and decorate. Or, if you prefer to purchase something a bit smaller, you can pick up a gorgeous fresh pine wreath, stunning ornaments, designer ribbons, garlands and centerpieces. These handcrafted items are sure to be a showstopper and highlight of your holiday décor. Stop by on your way back home and enjoy the scent of fresh pine on the drive. |
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#6 Enjoy a Quirky Downtown Holiday Display They know how to have fun with the holidays in McAlester. Don’t believe us? Visit Downtown McAlester for one of the most interesting and quirky holiday displays around. In addition to beautiful lights lining the streets and downtown buildings all aglow, you’ll find sidewalk Christmas trees decorated with caution tape and displays of firemen putting out dreaded holiday fires. You’ll also find gingerbread houses, playful mountain scenes and some of your favorite cartoon characters dressed in holiday attire – all lining the streets of McAlester. It’s absolutely fabulous and a must-see for anyone who enjoys playful fun during the holidays. Kids and kids at heart, will never forget it. |
| #7 Visit Santa While Shopping Old Town McAlester is hosting A Very Merry Christmas - a special event where guests can shop, visit with Santa, enjoy refreshments and door prizes. This open house flea market is the perfect spot to score vintage and antique gifts, handmade crafts and home decor, art from local artisans and one-of-a-kind items you won’t find elsewhere. And, with the big man himself on hand to greet shoppers, the little ones will be happy to tag along for the fun! |
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#8 Attend a Free Christmas Concert in McAlester
The Gift of Christmas - an inspiring holiday concert is a free community event sponsored by the McAlester Area Arts and Humanities Council. The McAlester Community Choir, accompanied by Orchestra Ensemble, will perform on December 11, 2021 at 7pm at the S. Arch Thompson Auditorium. Come for a beautiful evening of music and inspiration. |
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#9 Try Your Skills at the McAlester Community Ice Skating Rink
Nothing says wintertime fun like ice skating. Lace up your skates and prepare to amaze your friends and family on McAlester’s synthetic ice rink. This fun winter activity is sure to delight everyone in the family, no matter how old. It’s the perfect way to entertain the kids after an afternoon of shopping (or before the Christmas parade). The McAlester ice rink is operated by volunteer clubs and organizations, so your participation goes to a worthy cause. The ice rink typically operates Friday and Saturday, starting in the first week of December, as well as all week before Christmas. |
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| Visit McAlester, OK this Holiday Season |
McAlester is the epitome of ‘Small town. Big Christmas.’ and we invite you to visit us this holiday season. Book your stay here and remember a few important dates.
- November 27th - Small Business Saturday
- December 4th - Hip Chicks McAlester (a fun shopping experience at the McAlester Expo Center)
- December 4th - A Very Merry Christmas hosted by Downtown Antiques District businesses
- December 4th - Junk and Fleamarket in Old Town
- December 9th - Country Christmas Parade
- December 11th - The Gift of Christmas, a free holiday concert
- December 21st - Drawing for prizes and the $10,000 grand prize happens in downtown McAlester
- All Holiday Season - Holidays in McAlester
Visit McAlester for Christmas. Book your trip to McAlester today!