OKLAHOMA CITY – Soon, the Oklahoma State Capitol will soon look a lot like Christmas.
On December 2, Governor Mary Fallin and Superintendent Janet Barresi are hosting the annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremony.
Rumble, the Oklahoma City Thunder mascot, and Santa Claus himself will join more than 550 schoolchildren on the south steps of the Capitol.
Storytellers from the Metropolitan Library System will also be on hand to read classic Christmas tales.
Children from 23 school districts will spend the afternoon decorating one of the 26 three-foot Christmas trees situated throughout the Capitol.
Performers from the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre will be in full character for the festivities.
“The tree-lighting ceremony is a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas with children, parents and teachers from around the state,” Fallin said. “I am looking forward to joining the students from over 25 schools — and Santa! — to light the tree and begin the holiday season.”
“Christmas is a special and festive time of year, and it is always a treat to share its excitement with the children who come to the Capitol,” said Barresi. “It is truly a celebration, and I encourage families to join us.”
The 30-foot tree will be lit around 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2.
Along with the Capitol tree, the ceremony will illuminate 53 other trees throughout State Capitol Park.