Main Street Enid is gearing up for the 31st annual Enid Lights Up the Plains event, set to take place from December 1st through January 4th. Natalie Rapp, the director of Main Street Enid, provided an update during a recent government meeting, highlighting the festive activities planned for the holiday season.

The event will feature a variety of attractions, including the popular ice rink, which will open in conjunction with the lighting ceremony. Rapp noted that this year’s festivities will include an upgraded tree of lights, additional smaller trees, and a light show, all made possible through the generous contributions of local businesses and volunteers. The event will also host food trucks, vendors, live music, and a parade, which has been expanded to accommodate more participants.

Rapp emphasized the importance of community support for the ice rink, which is entering its fifth season. To enhance the experience, several themed nights are planned, including a \"Snowflake Showdown,\" a gingerbread game night, and a \"Taylor Swift Skate Night.\" The rink will also offer fundraising opportunities for local organizations, allowing them to earn money through ticket sales.

Nicole Winfield, project coordinator for the 1 Tree event, shared details about the opening night scheduled for December 1st. This year, the event will feature a new stage layout and a focus on marketing to attract visitors from surrounding areas. Winfield anticipates a turnout of over 40,000 attendees, building on last year's success, which drew approximately 30,000 people.

The 1 Tree event will include several special activities throughout its run, such as a Christmas cruise, Christmas Critters featuring reindeer and Santa, and a storybook night with live performances. Winfield expressed gratitude for the collaboration with city officials, which has been instrumental in organizing these community events.

Both Rapp and Winfield encouraged residents to participate and support the holiday festivities, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in making these events successful.