What You Need To Know About Opening Night In Downtown OKC

Rusty Surette, News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Construction in downtown Oklahoma City will not impact the biggest party in the state come New Year's Eve, according to event organizers.

An estimated 75,000 people are expected to pack into the downtown area Friday night for Opening Night 2011 celebrations. There's also a Flaming Lips concert planned nearby at the Cox Convention Center and a Thunder NBA basketball game planned at the Oklahoma City Arena.

"It's just going to be a really great time," said Opening Night 2011 Director Rachael Findley.

Nearly every street in downtown is under construction as part of the city's Project 180 makeover or the construction of the 50-story Devon headquarters skyscraper, but Findley saID revelers should have no problem getting to Friday night's party if they plan ahead.

"We just urge everyone to get to downtown early and find a good place to park," said Findley.

Most of the city parking garages will be open and available for use for $6 per vehicle. View the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority website for more information about parking downtown.

Opening Night is a New Year's Eve celebration with music, dancing, theater and fireworks. All performances take place in a safe, family-friendly environment. Opening Night 2011 takes place on Dec. 31 from 7 p.m.- midnight in venues around downtown Oklahoma City.

Get a map for the Opening Night activities and events.

An Opening Night admission wristband allows you access to all venues, all night long. Wristbands are $8 in advance, or $10 at the event. Purchase advance wristbands now at 7-Eleven stores of Oklahoma, metro Homeland stores, Science Museum Oklahoma and MidFirst Bank locations. For more information on Opening Night, call (405) 270-4848 or go to the Arts Council of OKC's website.

The Thunder and the Oklahoma City Arts Council are also teaming up to provide fans with a New Year's package that includes a ticket to Friday's game and a wristband to "Opening Night" for $26. Fans can start their New Year's Eve celebration early in downtown at the Ford Center by attending the game and then enjoy the "Opening Night" New Year's festivities. Fans can purchase packages by calling (405) 208-HOOP.