For those going downtown for New Years Eve, the festivities are being refocused to a slightly different area.

Opening Night to ring in new year by bringing something old, something new in downtown Oklahoma City | NewsOK.com (http://m.newsok.com/opening-night-to-ring-in-new-year-by-bringing-something-old-something-new-in-downtown-oklahoma-city/article/5378961)


This year’s countdown to midnight will be centered in a new venue, Bicentennial Park. The spot should offer excellent sightlines for the midnight fireworks, which will be launched from atop the parking garage at Walker and Sheridan, said Tony Lacy, Opening Night co-chairman.

“What better way with the 125th anniversary of the city than to gather in Bicentennial Park. We’ve got a band playing on a big stage right in front of the Civic Center, right on the steps, with a giant projection screen behind the stage up on the walls of the Civic Center,” Lacy said. “That’s going to be a prime location to watch the fireworks.”

We haven;ty come up for several years, except on occasion to simply enjoy the fireworks from a distance. For whatever reason some years back the county or the state said no more using the courthouse for venues. Never did find out exactly why. Saw some decent small acts in years gone by.

An update on street closings and access to downtown for those attending Opening Night.

Oklahoma City announces street closures during Opening Night | NewsOK.com (http://m.newsok.com/oklahoma-city-announces-street-closures-during-opening-night/article/5380414)

I think that's a phenomenal idea to activate Bicentennial Park, plus the westside skyline backdrop will produce some amazing photos of the festivities. I plan to be there!