Stillwater Oklahoma Holidays 2025 | Page 6

STILLWATER OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE / 6
From the Editor
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A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
Going behind the scenes on“ A Christmas Carol”

Old-timey traditions

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SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
Keeping your holiday dollars in the community

Are there families that still make their kids perform during holiday parties or other gatherings?

From books written during or based on the turn of the century, it would seem kids were expected to entertain guests with songs or games or something? Maybe that kind of thing still goes on. Every now and then you’ ll still get word of some carolers going door-to-door, and things like that.
It’ s not a new thought, but it has always impressed me how rural communities still keep the spirit of community alive during holidays by instigating their own fun. Stillwater kind of has a double benefit of being a university town with space and venues to accommodate larger crowds and special guests, but still has people willing to organize get-togethers and celebrations for those of us who call it home.
In the world of all things traditional, a Christmas parade seems pretty commonplace but Stillwater’ s – in its current form – really only goes back a little over 40 years. Another case of some folks wanted it to happen, so they made it happen. It has expanded under strong stewardship and a genuine love for community.
That’ s really just the tip of the iceberg. The parade has kind of become the event that really kicks off our holiday celebrations around here.
If you get a chance to peruse Visit Stillwater’ s calendar of events – go to the website at visitstillwater. org for a full list – you’ ll see no shortage of Christmas plays, concerts, Santa appearances and much more. Oh, and the ice rink is returning to Block 34. Will it be cold enough?
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Who can say, but it should be fun.
STORY BY Beau Simmons Editor Stillwater Oklahoma Magazine
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HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS
Creating a Christmas tradition takes dedication
WHAT’ S UP
Calendar of events
CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME
Spread cheer on Giving Tuesday
RANKING HOLIDAY FAVORITES
What gets us in the spirit
POINTERS FOR PETS
Keeping our furry friends safe
STILLWATER HOMESDHOOL BAND AND STRINGS
Shining a light on some talented music students
SEASON’ S GREETINGS
A yuletide letter from the Stillwater Oklahoma Magazine staff
LOCAL SHOPPING GUIDE
Some familiar favorites for local shoppers
MADE IN OKLAHOMA RECIPES
Treats with ingredients from the Sooner State
CHRISTMAS PUZZLES
Fun puzzles to help bring in the season
STILLY SCENES
Photo gallery
STILLWATER OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE / 6