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A winter wonderland ... but make it Second Saturday XL

Even if temps have felt a bit like spring, Second Saturday XL: Ice Block Party brings a winter wonderland to our grounds this weekend. That’s right, folks: We’re talking tasty treats, festive art-making, engaging performers, snowy play and more to usher in the holiday vibe, going out with a proper XL bang at our last free family festival of the year.

The art-making lineup is full of creative experiences tethered to the wintry season. Kiddos, family and friends can craft whimsical snow globes, make miniature cozy hats for pets or plants (led by Oklahoma Contemporary’s Teen Arts Council) and learn how to transform ice into artwork with Studio School instructor and local artist Amy Young, including take-home ice dyeing kits for the first 150 visitors.

While creating is always at the top of Second Saturday’s activities, this ice block party wouldn’t be complete without a snow-themed classic: an indoor snowball fight!

“I’m most excited about the indoor snowball arena!” says Christine Gibson, senior manager of Youth and Family Programs. “There will be free-play times so families can freely play, but also scheduled Snowball Games, complete with a referee to lead them. I think our visitors are going to have a blast!”

This indoor snowball arena comes with snow-like ammo without the icy touch, prepped for the next snow-traveling soldier to defend their territory (or pay back mom and dad for the early bedtime). And more frosty fun awaits: Visitors can indulge in tasty treats, too. Everyone can nosh on free snow cones — and the first 75 kids (ages 12 and under) get a special bonus: a free ticket to the DIY hot chocolate bar, courtesy Café Contemporary. Toppings will be aplenty, from crushed candy canes and marshmallows to kettle corn. Sip on some chocolatey goodness, build a VR snowman, get into the festive mood with on-theme face paint and watch roaming performers bring the winter season to life.

“We’ll have a snowflake-dressed performer from Inspyral Circus roaming the building, dancing and encouraging all to participate in the wintry spirit,” Gibson explains.

How could this weekend get any better, you might ask? Well, hang on there, friend, because Studio School’s annual Ceramics Sale will be open and popping!

“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate our instructors, and a nice selection of new ceramicists in OKC,” says David Stevens, ceramics program and studio manager.

Visitors can peruse and purchase artist-made pieces, from mugs and bowls to vases and pitchers. The popular sale offers unique, hand-crafted ceramics by both nationally recognized and emerging Oklahoma artists, including some very talented Studio School instructors. Functional vessels and funky tabletop sculptures will be up for grabs — unique, intentional gifts for a friend, a lover or for yourself. Your purchase benefits both Studio School and the artists themselves: Brian Bosworth, Douglas Casebeer, Marissa Childers, Liv Egan, Dan Harris, Eric Hoefer, Lily Nguyen, David Stevens and Denise Williams.

If you hit this XL party a little later in the afternoon, plan to stay for Automobile Alley’s Lights on Broadway, our district’s seventh-annual holiday open house with stunning light displays throughout the neighborhood. From 4-7 p.m., attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities along the sidewalks, including live music, balloon art, performances, an appearance from Mr. Claus himself and more. Second Saturday then Lights on Broadway? Yes, please!

Whatever suits your weekend best, join us for an afternoon of fun, family, community, festive art-making and throwing things without getting in trouble! We’ll be grooving and moving from 1-4 p.m. All are welcome – Second Saturday is always free, with no registration required.

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Second Saturday XL art-making ice dyeing Ceramics Sale Café Contemporary free family fun

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