Opening Night - Oklahoma City's Downtown New Year's Eve Celebration

The Arts Council of Oklahoma City has produced Opening Night in downtown Oklahoma City since 1987. With musical acts throughout the night, a fantastic fireworks display and a family-friendly atmosphere with a scavenger hunt, Opening Night is the top way to ring in the new year for Oklahoma City residents.

The Arts Council of Oklahoma has been fostering artistic performance and presentation for years. They produce such city events as the Festival of the Arts, WinterTales, Out of the Box and Sunday Twilight Concerts. The official sponsor of the Arts Council is MidFirst Bank, and annual sponsors include Sonic, Ozarka, The Oklahoman, Devon Energy Corporation and Chesapeake Energy Corporation.

December 31st, of course. Festivities last from 7pm to midnight throughout downtown, from various venues to the city streets.

Final countdown begins at 11:30pm with the fireworks scheduled for the moment the new year arrives.

Wristbands for Opening Night are $8 in advance and $10 at the event, with children under 5 admitted free. They can be purchased as early as November 23rd at area 7-11 stores, Homelands, MidFirst Banks, Penn Square Mall and Mathis Brothers Furniture as well as on the night of the festivities.

No alcohol will be served in any of the venues, and more information can be obtained by visiting the Arts Council of Oklahoma City online or calling (405) 270-4848.

• Musical Performances: 14 venues around downtown will feature musical acts performing throughout the evening. Performers include Edgar Cruz, the Michael Summers Band, The Wise Guys, Ambassador's Concert Choir and many more.
• Other Entertainment: Out on the streets of Bricktown, you'll find entertainment. In past years, it has including marching bands, dancers, clowns and more.
• Children's Area: Sponsored by Sonic, the Children's Area will include activities such as face painting, crafts and more.
• The Finale: The final countdown to the new year begins at 11:30pm, and the fireworks display will adorn the sky as 2009 arrives.