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There’s always something new in Shawnee, OK. New places to shop. New places to eat. New places to play. New places to stay. Here’s what’s new so far in 2026 (with more on the way!) An Occasional Sale has moved to 507 East Main Street in Downtown Shawnee and now has a MUCH larger space, which provides many more offerings. They buy out estates and offer quality home goods at reasonable prices. You will find their prices to be half or less than most estate sales. As they add thousands of new items every time they open, you’ll want to plan to attend their sales. They open about every 3-4 weeks for four days, Thurs through Sun. Sale dates throughout the rest of 2026 are August 27-30, September 24-27, October 22-25, November 12-15, and December 10-13. An Occasional Sale has moved to a much larger space in Downtown Shawnee! Two Trees Boutique is also in Downtown Shawnee at 313 East Main Street. Two Trees Boutique is a vendor marketplace filled with handcrafted items, home décor, gifts, boutique clothing, permanent jewelry, specialty treats, and more. With booths and items constantly changing, you’ll want to make it a point to visit frequently. Cavender’s Boot City has been a leader in Western wear and fashion for more than 60 years, and they now have a store in Shawnee! In the Shawnee Mall, you can find the best in design, style, and authentic Western wear from prestigious brands like Lucchese, Justin, Tony Lama, Laredo, Nocona, Rocky Mountain, and Wrangler. Next time you visit Shawnee for a rodeo, barrel racing, or bull riding, stop in to look your finest while watching the action. Cavender's Boot City in the Shawnee Mall The Lost Pages Book Store is owned and operated by author and former English teacher Steven E. Wedel. It’s in a cute little house on Kickapoo (2207 N. Kickapoo) and features new titles alongside “pre-loved books waiting for their next chapter.” Be sure to catch the book signings by authors, book chats, and writer’s guilds. For a fun evening, grab one of their “Blind Date with a Book”. The Links Indoor Golf Lounge provides simulators that deliver unmatched accuracy and immersive experiences, bringing the golf course indoors with ease and giving you the freedom to play, practice, and improve year-round. It’s simple too. Choose your preferred time and reserve a bay. When you show up, receive easy-to-follow instructions and door access to enjoy your reserved golf bay. Then hack a way! At 1301 E Independence Street, the Links is by reservations only. Book your tee time at TheLinksGolfShawnee.com Spark by Hilton Hotel is, okay, a rebrand of Comfort Inn and with the new look and new name comes an unforgettable stay by bringing creativity, comfort, and personal touches that make you feel right at home. The new lobby at the rebranded Spark by Hilton Hotel Main Street Shop and Stroll is a fun new event that has every store and restaurant Downtown open for one evening a month. The first Tuesday evening of each month from 5 to 8 pm, you can shop, stroll, dine, and even win gift certificates and gift cards. Grab a Full Stroll Passport from any participating merchant or restaurant, visit 10 or more places, get a stamp, and then hand in that Passport. Monthly names are drawn and “Strollers” win more than $500 in gift cards and certificates. Shop and Stroll dates throughout the rest of 2026 are September 1, October 6, November 3, and December 1. Bikes and Rods… new name for a popular event! What was Bikes on Bell is now Bikes and Rods. The monthly “bike rally” has now added classic cars to the fun. The third Thursday of every month, walk through the showcase of motorcycles and hot rods. Hang out with the bike and classic car owners. Be inspired to buy your own hog and show it off next year during Bikes and Rods. Bikes and Rods dates throughout the rest of 2026 are September 17 and October 15. Bookmark this Blog page and sign up for our weekly newsletter to be in the know about all that is new in Shawnee, OK.

Shawnee's pre-statehood Main Street and surrounding historic downtown is a pedestrian & cyclist friendly district with unique, locally-owned and operated restaurants and bars, boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and more. Consider this your guide to the best Downtown Shawnee adventure! Click a section to scroll to it: Things to Do Where to Eat Where to Shop Downtown Map Upcoming Events Downtown Shawnee is located 4 miles south of I-40 on Main St between Kickapoo & Harrison, and just a half mile off of State Hwy 177. See it on a map here. Things to do in Downtown Shawnee Whether you're looking for a fun afternoon for the whole family, or a night out on the town with drinks, music, and dancing -- downtown Shawnee's got your favorite flavor! Here's a sampling of what you can do in downtown Shawnee: Live Music & Entertainment The Ritz by Rylee Woessner The Ritz Theater - Recently renovated 1920s theatre, The Ritz hosts music, comedy, mediums, & more from around the nation. Many believe some of the Ritz' patrons and employees never left.... See who's playing next at ritzshawnee.com! Brickhouse Saloon - Classy 3-story downtown watering hole on historic, bricked Bell Street with top acts in country, rock, and more every weekend, including comedy & other adult shows throughout the year. See the event calendar at brickhousesaloon.com. Theo's Backyard - In the "backyard" of Theopolis Social Club is a small outdoor venue that features some of Oklahoma's finest talent in cozy shows year-round (there's even a heated tent in winter!) Find out who's playing every Friday on their Facebook page @TheopolisSocialClub . Fall Fest - Fall Fest is a day of autumn excitement with a carnival, costumes, candy, concert and more! Fall Fest is Saturday, October 3, 12-8PM, at Woodland Veterans Park! There are activities for all ages, live entertainment, food, music, and plenty of opportunities for families to enjoy the season together. Check out the details here. Family Friendly Fun Coffee N' Crafts - Enjoy a classic coffee shop experience all on its own or purchase a canvas with your coffee and paint a masterpiece with the complimentary art supplies. coffeencraftsok.com Shawnee Splash Waterpark - Shawnee Splash is a waterpark open each summer featuring three pools that include a lazy river, kid's play zone (pictured), diving area, and slides in addition to a splash pad. facebook.com/shawneesplash The Arts at 317 - A hub of Oklahoman artists, this home for the arts displays works from fine oil paintings to handmade glass night lights, in addition to holding workshops taught by professional artists each week. theartsat317.com The Guilded Grayland - your friendly neighborhood game store with a library of board, card, and other games for play and for purchase, or check out from the game library. Multiple events and tournaments each week whether you're into Pokemon or Magic the Gathering, and everything in between! theguildedgrayland.com Monuments & Museums Pottawatomie County Museum Complex - Seated onsite of the iconic Santa Fe Depot downtown, the museum houses an eclectic collection of artifacts & a scale model of downtown in the Milburn Center, and is also home to Beard Cabin, one of the oldest structures in the state. pottcountymuseum.org Painted Horses - In 2007, the "Horses in the City" project began to celebrate Shawnee's part of Oklahoma's centennial. Today, nearly three dozen of these "painted horses" stand proud throughout Shawnee, hand-painted by local artists. Several are located downtown. Get the list of horses here. Oklahoma Scissortail horse at Bancfirst Harrison. Oklahoma Veterans Memorial - Patterned after a five-point star with each point representing a branch of the military. Features a granite wall inscribed with the names of every known Oklahoman killed in action since the Spanish-American War, in addition to other war-time artifacts. bit.ly/okvetsmemorial "Shawnee's got that small-town feeling with big-city culture. I love taking my guests downtown to look at the art galleries with a stop-off at one of the great downtown restaurants!" - Ashley Neel, Local Guide & Adventurous Young Executive Restaurants in Downtown Shawnee Grab a bite or beverage at one of more than a dozen unique eateries located in this historic downtown district. Here's the quick list-- click for more info on each: Local fare at at historic Van's Pig Stand 1895 Homemade Ice Cream Boomarang Coffee N' Crafts Coney Island Comma Cafe Hamburger King Healthy Hive The Lunch Box The Original Van's Pig Stand The Owl Shoppe Phoenix Asian Diner Sunnyside Up Theopolis Social Club "I've lived in seven countries in my short 22 years, but I moved to Shawnee for college and fell in love with this wonderful community. The city's fun downtown is great for all ages! Most of all, I love how they welcome their guests from all across the world, myself included." - Sayde Charis, Local Guide & World Traveler Where to Shop in Downtown Shawnee From antique and vintage treasures to the newest maternity & baby gear, kitchen gadgets and fine olive oils, to hand-made, one of a kind night lights -- downtown Shawnee's unique shops have everything you wanted & more. Here's what you can find: New parent swag at Sweet Pea 4D's Maternity Boutique An Occasional Sale Arts at 317 Artzy Fartzy Bibliotech Books and Comics The Cave (Comics) Doggie Spot Dragon Den Creations Elements Cigars The Guilded Grayland Guitar Vault Harvest 5 Retail Co. Neal's Home Furnishings Oak, Ash, & Thorn Rattle My Chains Savvy Bites Shepherd's Men's Wear T-Box Antique Mall Treasures N Junk Vintiques Two Trees Boutique Uncommon Threads Virginia's Home Furnishings Map of Downtown Shawnee Ready to be on your way? Get the lay of the land and find your picks with ease with this map of downtown Shawnee, OK: Map of Downtown Shawnee Oklahoma Upcoming Events Click here to see the calendar of events in downtown Shawnee! There is so much to do, see, eat, and play in downtown Shawnee. Book a hotel and make it a whole weekend's adventure!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The World’s Richest Youth Rodeo Returns to Shawnee: 34th Annual International Finals Youth Rodeo Kicks Off July 12 Action from the International Finals Youth Rodeo (IFYR) Photo: Clayton Hibler Jennings Rodeo Photography SHAWNEE, Okla. — The future stars of professional rodeo are heading to Oklahoma next week as the 34th annual International Finals Youth Rodeo (IFYR) takes over the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center from July 12 through July 17, 2026. Widely recognized as the world's richest and most prestigious youth rodeo, the action-packed event will bring nearly 1,000 elite young athletes from more than 35 states and multiple countries to Shawnee. Competitors under the age of 19 will go head-to-head for a share of more than $250,000 in prize money, championship titles, custom silver buckles, and coveted prize saddles. The week-long event features 11 total performances across three arenas running simultaneously. Spectators can expect non-stop, high-energy Western sports action, including: Cowgirls Events: Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Breakaway Roping, and Goat Tying. Cowboys Events: Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Tie-Down Roping, and Steer Wrestling. Co-ed Events: Team Roping. "For more than three decades, Shawnee has proudly stood as the home of the IFYR," said Randy Gilbert, Chairman of the IFYR Board of Directors. "This event is a launching pad for the next generation of rodeo legends. The sheer talent, work ethic, and sportsmanship these young cowboys and cowgirls display is incredible, and we are thrilled to welcome the competitors and their families back to the Heart of Oklahoma." The grueling competition consists of two complete long-go rounds, culminating in the prestigious short-go championship round on the final day, where the top 15 contestants in each event will battle for the ultimate titles of All-Around Cowboy and Cowgirl. Beyond the arena, the event features a massive, air-conditioned marketplace open to the public, showcasing Western apparel, custom jewelry, home decor, arts, crafts, and food vendors. Ticket & Attendance Information: Individual session tickets and all-session passes are available for purchase online and at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center box office. General admission for individual sessions starts at $16.25 for adults, with discounts available for seniors and children. Free parking is available on-site. For the complete event schedule, performance times, or to purchase tickets online, visit the official website at www.ifyr.com or call (405) 275-7020. About the International Finals Youth Rodeo (IFYR) Founded in 1993, the International Finals Youth Rodeo is the premier platform for high school-aged rodeo athletes globally. Held annually at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center in Shawnee, Oklahoma, the IFYR features 11 action-packed performances across three arenas, providing young athletes the ultimate stage to showcase their skills, earn substantial prize money, and advance their athletic careers.

Just 30 minutes east of OKC on I-40, Shawnee is a vintage shopper's dream. With a vast array of curated vintage, thrift, and antique shops, your next treasure is waiting for you in Shawnee, OK! Read through the antique stores, consignment, and thrift stores or select a specific topic to jump to it: Curated Vintage and Thrift Stores Antique Stores Pop-Ups & Markets Download the Vintage Shopping brochure Curated Vintage and Thrift Stores Artzy Fartzy Unique little boutique filled with fabulous home décor, refurbished furniture and Fashion 20 W. Main Street | Facebook: ArtzyFartzyok Cinderella's Closet Carrying new and used fashions, home décor and clothing 1021 N Kickapoo | Facebook: cndr_consign Shawnee Outreach Thrift Locals keep this one a secret. Find trendy and vintage items from household to baby, clothing to collectibles. Daily specials. 1601 N Harrison Street | Facebook: SOSThrift Vintage Stock Your entertainment superstore! Buy or trade the newest hit movies, music, video games, rare comics, toys, and memorabilia. In the Shawnee Mall. 4901 N Kickapoo Ave Suite 1578 | Facebook: Vintage Stock Salvation Army Thrift | 330 E 9th St Goodwill | 1930 N Kickapoo Ave Antique Stores Vintage Depot Perfect finds for your man cave with auto memorabilia and furniture, plus soaps, T-Shirts, collectibles, Oklahoma and oil & gas items. 610 N Harrison | Facebook: Vintage Depot T-Box Antiques & More Located Downtown, T-Box is one of the largest selections of vintage and antique goods. 23 W Main St | Facebook: TBoxAntiques Treasures N Junk Vintiques The most unusual antiques, modern goods, and unique vintage discoveries in the region. This one is FUN! 9 E Main | Facebook: Treasures N Junk Vintiques Sherry & Terri's Mercantile Do you love gorgeous, hand-customized refurbished furniture? Look no further than Sherry & Terri's Mercantile. 922 E Independence | Facebook: Sherry & Terri's Mercantile Oliver Hardin Antiques A treasure trove of high-quality antiques and home decor. This antique shop specializes in fine vintage glass, dishes, and furniture pieces. 311 W MacArthur | Facebook: OliverHardinAntiques Rogers Vintage Depot Rogers is known for their impressive collection of metal toys, vintage signs, and old farm accessories. The Depot was featured on Discover Oklahoma. You can watch the segment here. 610 N Harrison | Facebook: VintageDepotShawnee Living Word Bookstore Find Bibles, Christian books, jewelry, and gifts. The friendly staff is ready to help you find the perfect item! 301 W MacArthur | Facebook: Living Word Bookstore Lost Pages Bookstore A new independent book shop for new and pre-loved books. A community spot for great reads and local author events. 2207 N Kickapoo | Website: Lost Pages Bookstore Pop-Ups & Markets An Occasional Sale Open twice a month (dates vary), now in a new, LARGER store, An Occasional Sale offers home goods from estate sales. New furniture and common household items are added regularly. 507 E Main | Facebook: AnOccasionalSale Sassy Dames Retail Therapy The Sassy Dames host craft shows at the Heart of Oklahoma Conference Center every other month; check Facebook or our Events Calendar for dates. Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center | Facebook: SassyDamesSale Monkey Business Children's Consignment This semi-annual sale features items for infants, children, teens, and expecting moms. The sale is designed to help you not only find great bargains but also help you sell your previously loved items at a great price! Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center | Website: Monkey Business Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment Upscale consignment event for families featuring gently used clothing and goods. The sales happen in the spring and fall. Shawnee Mall | Website: Rhea Lana's Friends of the Library Book Sale One of the largest book sales in the region. 50 cent, $1.00, and fill-a-bag deals. Held annually. Discover hidden deals in the Book Nook. Shawnee Public Library Farmers' Market at One Sixty For farmers and artisans to showcase their amazing products and goods. This market is on the first and third Saturdays from May through October. 7185 N Bryan | Shawnee Events Calendar Shawnee Farmers' Market Locally grown produce. Delicious foods. Crafts and vendors. Food trucks, music, and outdoor games. Held every Saturday, March through November. 6 W MacArthur | Shawnee Events Calendar Shawnee, OK is a vintage shopper's dream! Image featuring Tbox Antiques.

Big dreams, bigger buckles, and a quarter-million dollars on the line. It's the International Finals Youth Rodeo or IFYR. From bull riding to breakaway roping, the IFYR features the top contenders from across the globe competing in three simultaneous arenas. Let’s dive into what makes the IFYR the most prestigious stop on the youth rodeo circuit. What is IFYR? The International Finals Youth Rodeo is one of the anchor events of Shawnee's annual calendar and brings in some of the world’s best young rodeo talent, coming from as far away as Australia. With the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center as their battleground, the event runs for six days as young riders and ropers compete for the best times and achievements! Sanctioned by the International Professional Rodeo Association, many of the greatest names in the rodeo world have had their roots in the IFYR, having made their pilgrimage to the Redbud City of Oklahoma. Including these buckaroos, their families, and rodeo enthusiasts from all over, the event brings in thousands of visitors annually! With such a great pedigree, it’s no surprise that the rodeo has grown to such a size. In fact, the rodeo has touched the lives of approximately 1.5 million people, from competitors and their families to spectators and volunteers. Established in 1993 with 309 contestants from 13 states, the IFYR has grown to average more than a thousand contestants annually from around the world. The event has come to be known as “the world’s richest youth rodeo,” as contestants compete for more than $250,000 in prize money, plus scholarships, nightly jackpots, and championship saddles and buckles. Additionally, competitors who earn either the All-Around Cowboy or Cowgirl titles gain the use of special championship trailers! What kind of rodeo competition can visitors expect? Events for the youth rodeo contestants include barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, goat tying, team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and bareback riding. City slickers might not recognize or fully understand all these terms, but rodeo enthusiasts know exactly what we’re talking about. All these events take a great deal of athleticism, tenacity, and skill; if you want to learn more, attending the IFYR would be the perfect opportunity to brush up on your rodeo lingo! Once you know the language, you can start appreciating the incredible depth of this competition. The IFYR isn't just another stop on the summer circuit—it’s a global phenomenon with a wild history of record-breaking moments and backstage perks. Before you grab your tickets, check out these 5 things you didn't know about the world's richest youth rodeo: 1. It is a Literal Incubator for Future World Champions The teenagers you see competing on the Shawnee dirt this week are the exact same athletes you’ll be watching on television at the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in a few years. The IFYR is legendary for launching professional careers. Stetson Wright—now an 8-time PRCA World Champion and rodeo royalty—won the IFYR Saddle Bronc and Bull Riding titles back in 2017. Tuf Cooper, one of the most decorated tie-down ropers in history, still holds the IFYR record for the most money won in the Boys' All-Around division ($6,818.58 all the way back in 2006!). 2. A 25-Year-Old Record Stood at 3.1 Seconds Speed is everything in timed events, but one historic run has left everyone chasing ghosts for a quarter of a century. Back in 2001, steer wrestler Cade Swor leaped from his horse and threw his steer down in a blistering 3.1 seconds. Arena conditions, livestock, and athlete training have all evolved since then, yet nobody has been able to touch that record for twenty-five years. 3. It’s a Multi-Arena Sensory Overload If you’ve never been to the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center during the IFYR, prepare yourself: the action doesn't stop for a single second. Because there are over 1,000 contestants to get through, the IFYR runs three separate arenas simultaneously. You can watch a heart-stopping bull ride in one direction, pivot your head, and catch a lightning-fast barrel racing run in the other. It is a non-stop, two-hour rush of pure adrenaline. The schedule can be found at IFYR.com 4. There’s a Fully Air-Conditioned Hidden Gem Next Door Let’s be honest: Oklahoma in July is hot. When you need a break from the summer sun, you don't even have to leave the complex. The adjacent temperature-controlled Conference Center transforms into the Tin Star Market. It’s a massive Western trade show packed with high-end boutique clothing, handmade leather goods, unique jewelry, and artisan home decor. It's the ultimate place to cool off and do some serious shopping between performances. 5. It Just Transformed Oklahoma into a Two-Week Global Powerhouse The IFYR has always been a massive week-long draw, but a recent calendar coordination has turned central Oklahoma into the absolute epicenter of the global youth Western sports world. The IFYR now runs back-to-back with the Cinch World Championship Junior Rodeo (WCJR) just up the road in Guthrie. This means international families from across the U.S., Canada, and Australia can pack up their trailers for a massive two-week youth rodeo blockbuster right here in the Sooner State. Whether you are a die-hard rodeo fan who can spot a perfect heel-loop from a mile away, or a curious traveler looking for an authentic slice of Oklahoma heritage, the IFYR delivers an adrenaline rush like nothing else. Shawnee is ready to welcome the world. The only question left is: Will you be there to see history in the making? For more information, you can head on over to the rodeo’s website or find them on Facebook.

231 sunny days on average in Oklahoma. That’s almost an entire month more than average! With those extra days, explore nature with all the fun things to do outdoors in and around Shawnee. Whether you're looking to hunt your next Christmas tree or splash around in the summer sun, Shawnee's diverse outdoor adventures have it all. Woman kayaks at Twin Lakes just after sunrise in Shawnee Outdoor Destinations off I-40 in Shawnee Shawnee Twin Lakes is a serene public lake destination ideal for fishing, kayaking, camping, and swimming just south of I-40 on Hwy 102! The two lakes are connected by a beautiful red-cliffed channel and features several parks, a campground with newly renovated amenities, swimming beaches, boat ramps, a fishing dock, and a kayak launch. If you don't have your own kayak, don't worry -- you can rent one at Kayak Cove on the weekends. Shawnee has 40 diverse parks, from a flower lover's favorite Rose Garden Park on Broadway to Dean Weigant Park's towering play space by the Airport. $9 million in park renovations transformed the nearly 7-acre Kid Space Park into one of Oklahoma's top 5 largest premier parks. This playground for all ages includes playgrounds for kids from 2 - 100, including a walking trail, timed 40-meter dash, and ninja course, with play structures for littles, middles, and big kids. Runners will enjoy the Airport Track and other urban trails. Into another sport? Find pickleball, volleyball, tennis courts, and disc golf courses. If traditional golf is your sport, tee up Firelake Golf Course on the 6,335 yards of greens and fairways. Chase the butterflies! A wonderful butterfly garden is at our Pottawatomie County OSU Extension Office grounds. In the summer months, many species of butterflies and moths, bumble bees, and honeybees flutter through the garden feeding. This garden is registered with the Monarch Watch organization with the official designation of Monarch Waystation #20948. Explore the other side of nature at Oklahoma's only nationally accredited arboretum on the campus of Oklahoma Baptist University. There are 134 different species of trees and 150 more shrub varieties, including a direct descendant sapling of the Survivor Tree from the Oklahoma City bombing. Ready to cool off? Head to the Shawnee Splash Water Park! Open late May - early August annually, this incredible downtown waterpark opens each summer, featuring a lazy river, kids' play zone, diving area, and slides. Interested in honing your aim? Clay Bird Sports is a public sporting clays club with a full 10-station walking course and monthly tournament events. Open year-round just off Twin Lakes Reservoir. Also located along Twin Lakes is the Locomotive Operators of Central Oklahoma's 1/8 model train track and locomotive! Open for private parties year-round and the first Sunday of each month for public runs, which include special events each December to ride with the Clauses. In the fall and winter, one of the favorite destinations for locals and visitors alike is Sunshine Shelly's -- a pumpkin patch experience and haunted maze each fall, followed by a tree farm wonderland each December. Upcoming Outdoor Events in Shawnee

Vacations are typically about breaking free from the usual routine and going on adventures, so it’s understandable that your first impulse is to shell out for plane tickets or fill up the gas tank. But what if we told you that there’s a treasure trove of novel experiences here in Shawnee, Oklahoma? So, don’t stress about the logistics of travel or the damage to your budget this year—stay close to home and view it with a new perspective. How is that possible, you might ask? Here are four ways to get started. 1. Pick your home away from home Kick off your stay-cation by booking yourself a little home-away-from-home at one of our city’s lovely hotels . You will find the hotels on the north side of town accommodating to all visitors, many of which feature fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, and free breakfast, not to mention all the usual accoutrement. You can also stay at the Grand Casino Hotel & Resort , where entertainment options are always available, including specialty restaurants including Soto Sushi, Flame Brazilian Steakhouse & more. 2. Choose from 3 unique museums, or see them all! You may not realize that Shawnee is home to three museums full of fascinating curiosities and engaging exhibits. Start at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art , where you can see art and artifacts from the world over. Then work your way over to the Santa Fe Depot, where the Pott. County Museum puts the interesting history of the county on display. After that, you can finish up your day at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation (CPN) Cultural Heritage Center , where you will be moved by the story of their people through their adversities and triumphs. 3. Meet the Eagles Speaking of the CPN, did you know that they have an Eagle Aviary, one of only seven like it in the nation? Home to over a dozen bald eagles and several other bird species, the Eagle Aviary provides a permanent home for eagles (and other birds) that have sustained injuries serious enough that they cannot live in the wild —but you’ll note how lively and majestic they are despite this. They were also the first aviary of their kind to successfully release an eagle back into the wild , and you’ll be surprised to see everywhere the bird has flown. If you’re interested in visiting the aviary, make sure you call at least two weeks in advance—the eagles are in high demand. 4. Pick out an alley, arcade, or our play space If the weather turns out poorly, or you’re simply looking for a bit of indoor fun, Shawnee is home to several bowling alleys, arcades, and a cool play space! Visit the lanes at Shawnee Bowl or FireLake Bowling Center —both locations will accommodate bowlers from beginner to expert levels of skill. Shawnee Bowl’s party packages, concessions, and $1.50 games after 9:00 pm Sunday through Thursday will make for a fun and casual evening, while FireLake features a bowler’s pro shop for those looking to step up their game, and glow-in-the-dark bowling every Friday and Saturday night. If bowling isn’t your thing, you’ll find a variety of fun games in At the Pier arcade at the Shawnee Mall, and there's a classy arcade inside Firelake Bowling Center as well! Play Space is Shawnee’s premier indoor playground featuring a 3-level main play structure with two tube slides, a triple-wave slide, a mini zip line, rope ladders, and plenty more for kids of all ages, including a toddler space (so no risk of being run over!) Excited to have your stay-cation yet? We look forward to having you in Shawnee, Oklahoma!

RSVP to attend and learn more at this form: Empty Buildings Tour Signup Downtown Shawnee is opening its doors — even the empty ones — for a special Empty Buildings Tour  this October. The event invites the public to tour vacant and underused downtown buildings to see their potential for new businesses, housing, and creative uses. The Empty Buildings Tour  will be held on Wednesday, October 22 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and Thursday, October 23 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., offering a chance to reimagine these historic spaces. “Following our meetings with SaveYour.Town last fall, the Empty Buildings Tour was suggested as an initiative to spark the investment in downtown. This is about possibility,” said Stacy Cramer Moore, Director of Tourism, Visit Shawnee, OK . “We want people to see not what these buildings are today, but what they could  be with new life and ideas. This event is designed to help fill our downtown, support entrepreneurs, and showcase Shawnee’s future. ” “Downtown was the heartbeat of Shawnee, and over the years, like many historic downtowns, it lost some of its rhythm,” reflected Stephen Koranda, tourism consultant with Back To You Marketing . “The Empty Buildings Tour is more than just an event—it's an opportunity to help people see the soul and potential in these beautiful, historic spaces again. We're not just showcasing empty buildings; we're helping to lay the groundwork for a revitalized downtown, filled with new businesses and vibrant life. I'm honored to be a part of bringing that vision to life." What to Expect Free, self-guided tour of 10-12 vacant downtown buildings Volunteers on hand to share building details and answer questions Maps and building information at the check-in station Downtown shops and restaurants open late “Ask a Professional” opportunities Visitors can explore historic storefronts, imagine new uses, and even meet owners or realtors on site. The buildings on the Empty Buildings Tour include: 212 West Main 12 East Main 208 East Main 222 East Main 324 East Main 507 East Main 717 & 719 East Main 125 North Bell 432 North Broadway Start your tour at any location or at Tom Terry Park, Broadway and Main, where Visit Shawnee will be set up. See all the buildings or see one. And picture your vision taking root. Download the Empty Buildings Tour Program: Why an Empty Buildings Tour? Shawnee’s Empty Buildings Tour follows a model used in small cities across America to combat downtown vacancies. By literally opening doors, the event reduces fear and uncertainty about old buildings and shows their potential for: retail shops, restaurants and cafés, office space, housing or lofts, galleries and studios. The possibilities are only as limited as a mind’s imagination. “We want local entrepreneurs, investors, and residents to walk through and dream,” Cramer Moore added. “Maybe someone sees the perfect spot for their next big idea.” Event Details Dates:  October 22 and 23 Time:  2:00 to 5:00 p.m. (October 22); 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. (October 23) Cost:  Free and open to the public Property owners interested in participating can still sign up by contacting Stephen Koranda at 405-637-6225 or info@VisitShawnee.com . You can also complete this form: Empty Buildings Tour Signup Volunteers are also needed to help greet visitors and staff buildings.  The event is free and open to the public. For More Information Contact: Stephen Koranda, 405-637-6225, info@VisitShawnee.com

There is so much fall fun for the family in Shawnee, Oklahoma! Attend one of the nearly 50 fall festivals or other autumn fun activities! And Yes -- Shawnee LOVES Halloween! Many of those fall festivals are trick-or-treating opportunities so get your costume ready! Check our Events Calendar for all upcoming events and find an awesome autumn adventure. Here are our Top 10 things to do for fall fun this year in Shawnee: 1. Pick your own pumpkin at Sunshine Shelly’s Pumpkin Patch This 20-acre farm has fun for the whole family! Farm-grown pumpkins, a Corn Maze, corn pits, big trikes, hayride, giant pumpkin bounce, fire pits, and special events like Halloween movie night every Saturday at sunset. 2. See the changing leaves at the National Arboretum at OBU There are more than 300 trees & shrubs on campus representing 134 different species, including a seedling from the OKC Bombing's Survivor Tree. Pack your walking shoes! 3. Kick your Halloween off with the Monsters on Main Halloween Festival Formerly known as Boo on Bell, this annual fall festival celebrates the autumn season with family-friendly activities. A carnival downtown runs Thursday through Saturday, and a full-day festival happens on Main Street all Saturday! Costume contests (for kids, adults, and pets!), a trick-or-treat on Main, plus ghost stories, games, face painting, food trucks, and more. 4. Get spooked at the Nightmare Harvest Haunted Corn Maze Shawnee's only haunted corn maze is back in 2024! Awarded Oklahoma's Outstanding Agricultural Attraction in 2021, this legendary haunted maze will spook your boots off (not recommended for children under 13.) 5. Get your very own Fall Gnome at The Arts @ 317 Craft your own autumn-inspired gnome at one of their seasonal classes, or buy one in the gallery from gnome artist extraordinaire Betty Combe. 6. Welcome soup season at a local soup hotspot The Owl Shoppe' s eclectic and experimental menu changes each week, so follow them on Facebook to see your choice of soup -- some of their popular soups include birria ramen, peach gazpacho, and jalapeno pepper chowder! Theopolis Social Club also features seasonal soups, a few favorites of which are red pepper bisque and potato leek. A final great soup stop is The Lunch Box , which features two soups every day on a rotating menu. We're partial to the white cheddar poblano... 7. Don your favorite flannel and throw axes at Lumberjack Johnson's A hip flannel is not actually required, but a good throwing arm will do you some good! Open year-round, something about throwing axes that feels especially great once the air is crisp and the leaves are falling! 8. Celebrate Mummy Day with Oklahoma's Only Mummies The first Saturday in November each year is Mummy Day at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art , a free family-friendly educational festival celebrating Oklahoma's only mummies, who live at the MGMoA. 9. Cheer for the OBU Bison Fall and football go together like Brad Pitt and George Clooney in movies. In Shawnee, we cheer for the OBU Bison! Oklahoma Baptist compete in the Great American Conference and compete against some of the best in NCAA Division 2 teams. Find their schedule here . 10. Spook the Competition at the legendary Firelake Costume Contest This adults-only Halloween party at Firelake Casino is legendary, with a prize of $1000 to the best costume! Registration is at 7pm, judging starts at 8:15.

The FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival offers two days of balloon glows, balloon launches and rides, and family-friendly entertainment in Shawnee, Oklahoma every year, the second weekend in August. It was named Oklahoma's Best Event by the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association in 2022! The Outdoor Nation Expo, which runs alongside Balloon Fest, offers family-friendly hunting and fishing demos, products, and more! Shawnee's Annual Balloon Festival Fireflight Balloon Fest is going into its fifth year of family-friendly entertainment. Watch hot-air balloons fill the sky, catch quality live entertainment, and experience some of Oklahoma’s best vendors and food trucks all gathered together the second weekend in August at Raymond Peltier Park, 1702 S. Gordon Cooper Drive. NEW in 2024: take your FireLake Fireflight Balloon Festival experience to new heights with our official mobile application! Gain access to exclusive content, get first dibs on balloon flights, and customize your schedule and notifications to stay up to date on the latest. IOS: apps.apple.com/us/app/fireflight-balloon-fest/id6469745185 Android: http://play.google.com/store/apps/details ... Tethered rides are on a first-come first-serve basis during the festival, and untethered rides must be reserved & paid in advance, which you can do online ! Fireflight Balloon Festival Schedule Family-friendly activities at Fireflight include inflatables, clowns, carnival rides, a petting zoo, face painting, and plenty more. Kids zone activities will be free, but you’ll need to buy either tickets or wristbands for the carnival. There will also be a fireworks show at the end of the Friday's balloon glow, so you won’t want to miss that! Friday, August 9th Balloon Fest Schedule 7:00 am - 9:00 am Morning Balloon Launch (weather permitting) 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Balloon field CLOSED until 6pm 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm Outdoor Nation Expo at FireLake Arena ($5/person) 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Splash Pad 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm Kids' Zone ($10) 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm Vendor Market and Food Trucks 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Tethered Ride ticket sales begin ($20) 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Tethered Rides (weather permitting) ($20) 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Dustin Pittsley 8:30 pm - 9:00 pm Balloon Glow (weather permitting) 9:00 pm - 9:30 pm Fireworks (weather permitting) Saturday, August 10th Balloon Fest Schedule 6:30 am - 8:00 am 5k from CPN Cultural Heritage Center 7:00 am - 9:00 am Morning Balloon Launch (weather permitting) 7:00 am - 9:00 am Tethered Rides (weather permitting) ($20) 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Balloon field CLOSED until 6pm 9:00 am - 9:00 pm Outdoor Nation Expo at FireLake Arena ($5/person) 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Splash Pad 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm Vendor Market and Food Trucks 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm Kids' Zone ($10) ​ 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm The Risky Business Band 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Tethered Ride ticket sales begin ($20) 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Tethered Rides (weather permitting) ($20) ​ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Cam Allen 8:30 pm - 9:00 pm Balloon Glow (weather permitting) 9:00 pm - 10:30 pm Live Music-Artist announcement coming Fireflight 5K For all of you athletes, there will also be a Fireflight 5K Run/Walk the morning of Saturday, August 13th. The race features professional chip timing, and participants will receive a custom race medal and t-shirt. Whether you’re the speediest around or you want to go along with your kids, the race will let you go at your own pace! Outdoor Nation Expo Outdoor Nation Expo is back and enthusiasts of all things outdoors will want to check it out! From hunting to fishing, camping to mountaineering, with vendors for adults and fun activities for kids, there’s plenty to do at ONE. The expo takes place during the Balloon Festival at the FireLake Arena , 18145 Old Rangeline Road. This outdoor lover's dream expo is located inside of Firelake Arena, an air-conditioned venue across the parking lot from the Balloon Festival Grounds. Friday , Aug 9th from 12 - 9 pm Saturday, Aug 11th from 9 am - 9 pm Activities available throughout the expo: Hunting & Fishing Vendor Expo Choctaw Archery Shoot (free, 4+) Bow-fishing Target Shooting Army Bass Anglers NWTF BB Gun Range Corn Hole Locke Supply Kids Catfishing Pitt Stop Extreme Animals Petting Zoo Fishing Pole Casting Contest Frequently Asked Questions Are attendance and parking free? Attendance AND parking are free! It is recommended to bring cash for the vendor market, tethered balloon rides, food trucks, and other activities. There is only one ATM onsite at the festival. Should I bring a chair? We recommend bringing lawn chairs and/or blankets for seating while you enjoy the live music and balloon glows. Can I bring food or water? Outside food and drink are not permitted, but there will be plenty for sale. Where can I stay close to the festival grounds? Shawnee has nine hotels, two motels, and four RV parks all located within 10 miles of the festival grounds! Find your preferred lodging at VisitShawnee.com/stay and book soon - hotels are filling up. If you have more questions, check out the Festival website's FAQ here . What else should I do while I'm in town? Shop, dine, and play in historic downtown Shawnee - this pre-statehood Main Street area is a pedestrian & cyclist friendly district with unique, locally-owned and operated restaurants and shops just two miles north of the Balloon Festival grounds. See Oklahoma's only Egyptian mummy at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art plus more art & artifacts from 8,000 years of human history; admission is FREE throughout August and their current featured gallery is "Ancient Ruins to Skyscrapers: Architecture in Art". Find the Painted Horses - Nearly 3 dozen beautiful horses stand proud throughout Shawnee, hand-painted by local artists. Each horse shares a unique story and approach to craftsmanship. Cool off at Shawnee's Twin Lakes Reservoir - located just south of I-40 just minutes from the Balloon Festival, the reservoir is a quiet public lake ideal for serene fishing, kayaking, and swimming! Balloon Festival Map Doesn’t all that sound exciting? Be sure to FOLLOW the Balloon Fest on Facebook for the most up to date information!