Every year, just before Thanksgiving, you see it before you even get into Yukon. A glowing greeting adorns the north side of I-40: “Merry Christmas from the City of Yukon.” Upon taking the exit, you feel the excitement as you follow the pointing snowmen to the main attraction. Finally, you start your journey through a magnificent arch that reads “Christmas in the Park.”

Follow the winding path through interconnected parks transformed into a holiday wonderland, and you’ll see over a quarter century of hard work, lovingly put together by city staff and volunteers. It’s no wonder Christmas in the Park holds the distinction of largest drive-thru light display in Oklahoma, boasting over 5 million lights and 500 whimsical displays.

There are three ways to enjoy Christmas in the Park. Motorists from the contiguous 48 states have driven through this wonderland. Twinkling animated displays amuse as you leisurely make your way through, while the animated RGB tree wows young and old alike.

Guest can get up-close and personal to the lights with a walking tour. The romantic pond area in Chisholm Trail Park is ideal for a winter date. There is even a “Will You Marry Me?” sign for guests who are ready to pop the question. Selfie stations are placed throughout the parks for pictures perfect for Instagram or your annual Christmas card. You’ll find new displays each year. Two new displays that promise to be popular are larger-than-life, 3D elves and a whimsical merry-go-round.

The Christmas in the Park Train Station is the junction of tasty treats, selfie spots, and, back by popular demand, an ice-skating rink. On Fridays and Saturdays, St. Nick himself stops by for photos with his biggest fans. The Santa Express takes guests on a tour of the lights that adorn Chisholm Trail Park. The Santa Express and Yukon Ice Rink cost a small fee.

Near the donation station in Chisholm Trail Park, you can pull over on Fridays and Saturdays to pose with fan-favorite Christmas characters. From the Grinch to Elf on the Shelf, you never know who you’ll run into!

Before you end your tour of Christmas in the Park, be sure to stop by the three-story-tall animated RGB Christmas tree. The tree combines every color under the rainbow to present a stunning light show throughout your visit. Bright and bold animations, messages and dancing lights are all synced to your favorite Christmas tunes.