Twinkling lights, The Nutcracker ballet, pageants and plays, and a visit to Santa-all lovely and delightful ways to ring in the season. But if you want to break out of the box a bit and travel farther afield this season, the following events might fit the bill. And, to make them even more appealing in this season of big spending, all of them are free!

Fort Reno Christmas, December 16

If you're a regular reader of this column, or if you have been to events at Fort Reno, you may have noticed a common theme-reenactors. To celebrate the season, knowledgeable history buffs in period dress will fire the Christmas guns and cannons and explain how weapons of war became associated with the birthday of the Prince of Peace. Expect storytelling, singing, snacks, and even an appearance by Father Christmas. The guns will be fired around 2pm and again around 3:30pm, so if you arrive late be sure to stick around for the second show. 

Boy's Ranch Town Living Christmas Pageant, December 7-9

Families in search of an event that's a little less secular will enjoy this drive-through Christmas pageant. Every car is provided with a CD which narrates the scenes from Jesus' life, each depicted by the Boy's Ranch children and a few of the animals in their care. The story begins with the announcement of Jesus' birth by the angels and ends with His ascension into heaven. The event is free, but donations are accepted.

Holiday Happening at Sam Noble Museum, December 6

Santa Claus is accustomed to being the main attraction at holiday parties, but during this event he will have to compete with dinosaurs for the attention of his young fans. The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History's Holiday Happening is a real bargain-not only will your family get free admission to the museum and a visit with Santa, but the gift shop will offer deep discounts for the science enthusiasts on your shopping list. There will also be live music and craft activities. And if you want to have your child's photo taken with the man in red, the museum offers them for sale or you may or take them with your own camera. Add to the season's cheer by donating food and gifts to those less fortunate though the museum's partnership with the Food and Shelter for Friends charity. Just bring your goodies to the museum during the event and drop them off.

There's a common thread that binds all three of these events-education. Be it local history, religion, or ancient history, there are lessons to be learned at every stop. Enjoy!

Where the Christmas Fun is...

Boy's Ranch Town Living Christmas Pageant, Edmond
Sunday-Tuesday, December 7-9, 7-9pm;
arrive early to avoid a short wait
405-341-3606 

Fort Reno Christmas, El Reno
Sunday, December 16, 2-4pm
405-262-3987, FortReno.org

Holiday Happening at Sam Noble Museum, Norman
Saturday, December 6; 6-9pm
405-325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu

Lights, Activities, and Events

Chelsey Simpson is an editor who lives in Edmond with her husband and her miniature schnauzer, Ellie.