Celebrating Memorial Day in Oklahoma City

On the final Monday of each May, we all take a moment to honor and recognize the sacrifice of military men and women lost in service to the United States. Many in Oklahoma City take the opportunity to visit the memorials of loved ones and spend time with family at annual events. Here's a list of some of the Memorial Day events in the Oklahoma City metro area.

45th Infantry Division Museum's Memorial Day Ceremony

Pay tribute to the veterans at this annual ceremony that includes helicopter flyover, massing of the colors, patriotic music and guest speakers.

Bethany 66 Festival

 With a car show and concerts, the night before and a full day of exciting festival events such as arts and crafts vendors, games and more, the Bethany 66 Festival is a treat for the whole family.

Annual Chuck Wagon Gathering at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

 A Memorial Day weekend event with more than 20 years of history, the Chuck Wagon Gathering and Children's Cowboy Festival plenty of cowboy-favorite foods, live entertainment and western activities such as wagon rides and rope-making.

Paseo Arts Festival

The annual Paseo Arts Festival runs during Memorial Day weekend and includes 80 artists with their work on display. There's pottery, jewelry, paintings, crafts and more. In addition, the festival has two stages with live music and a children's area.

Metro Area Lakes

Wherever you are in the Oklahoma City metro, there's a major lake not too far away, and they become quite the popular spots over Memorial Day weekend. Note that you will need all the proper permits and that some lakes exclude particular activities (for example, swimming is not allowed at Overholser or Hefner), so check the link above to get all the recreational details for each lake.

Free Museum Admission for Military

All active duty military personnel and their families receive free admission to a number of area attractions, including museums, on Memorial Day.