Bicentennial Park Hosting Oklahoma City New Year's Eve Party

Hundreds gathered in downtown Oklahoma City Saturday night to ring in the new year at Opening Night 2023. The event has live music performed by local artists, along with food trucks and kid-friendly events for the whole family.

“We really hope the community wants to come out and celebrate 2023," said Angela Cosby, the Executive Director of the Arts Council OKC.

The celebrations kicked off Saturday afternoon with a 5K through downtown.

“I was really happy for 60-degree weather, especially after the -21 wind chills last week," said Andrea McKiney.

There are also events for the kids to enjoy, including the bricktown clowns, art projects and more.

“They can see a magician in city hall, we have OKC improv at the library so there's just a variety of things to do," said Crosby.

The event hasn’t been at Bicentennial Park in a few years, but everybody says they’re glad to have it return this year.

“I'm glad to see it back in front of the Civic Center, can't go wrong," said one of the attendees.

“You can eat, you can drink; we do have a 21 and older section for those who are looking for something maybe a little less family friendly, but it definitely is something for everybody," said Crosby.

It wouldn’t be New Years Eve without the ball drop, but it’s done a little bit differently here in Oklahoma City. As the countdown begins, the ball rises!

“I think it's a fun tradition for Oklahomans to do. It just sets us apart from all of the other states," said Madelyn McConell.

The ball weights two tons and will be raised 10 stories high during the countdown to 2023.

There will be a fireworks show at midnight to kick off the new year.

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