Leg Lamps and More: Where ‘A Christmas Story’ Comes to Life in Chickasha, Oklahoma

As an Oklahoma City resident, I’m always on the lookout for unique weekend getaways that can entertain both parents and teenagers. Little did I know that just an hour’s drive southwest of OKC lies a small town that “Triple Dog Dared” to become a year-round Christmas Story. Ready to be transported straight into a beloved holiday classic? Welcome to Chickasha, Oklahoma – the unexpected home of all things “A Christmas Story”!

Disclaimer: During my visit to Chickasha, Oklahoma, I collaborated with Chickasaw Country and received complimentary accommodations and meals for research purposes. Please note that all opinions expressed in this piece are entirely my own.

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The Road to Christmas… in Chickasha?

Chickasha, a charming city of about 17,000 residents, might seem like an unlikely setting for a “Christmas Story” pilgrimage. But as we discovered during our recent weekend trip, this small town has fully embraced its connection to the iconic movie, creating a year-round celebration that peaks during the holiday season.

Getting to Chickasha is a breeze. From Oklahoma City, it’s a straight shot down I-44 South, taking about an hour. As I drove,  I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and nostalgia, knowing that I was headed to the town that embraced elements from one of my favorite holiday films. When I turned onto the main street in downtown Chickasha, I was delighted to see an area amid revitalization and fun leg lamp lighting on the buildings. And of course, no trip to Chickasha would be complete without a visit to the famous 50-foot tall “A Christmas Story” Leg Lamp right there in downtown. 

Where to Stay: A Night in Ralphie’s World

The highlight of any “Christmas Story” fan’s visit has to be spending the night in Ralphie’s House. This vacation rental is a re-imagined recreation of the Parker family home from the movie. As we pulled up to the house, I let out an excited “Holy cow!” – a phrase I’m sure Ralphie would approve of.

The attention to detail inside Ralphie’s House is impressive. From the leg lamp proudly displayed in the front window and throughout the house to the Red Ryder BB gun box carefully placed over the front door. There was even a Christmas tree in the living room, every corner of the house feels like you’ve stepped onto the movie set.

The upstairs space is great for kids and young adults with a dedicated Ralphie’s Hideout and a large common area perfect for playing games or watching TV.

The house sleeps up to 10 people comfortably, making it perfect for larger families or groups. But be sure to book well in advance, especially during the holiday season – this place fills up fast!

For those unable to snag a night at Ralphie’s, Chickasha offers several other comfortable accommodation options. The same management company offering Ralphie’s House also has a Rock ‘N Roll themed home next door. But if you are seeking more traditional hotel accommodations, we’ve heard good things about the Holiday Inn Express and the Fairfield Inn and Suites, both of which lean into the town’s festive theme during the winter months.

Fra-gee-lay: It Must Be Italian!

No visit to Chickasha is complete without a pilgrimage to the town’s crown jewel: the Giant Leg Lamp. Standing proudly in the center of town, this 40-foot tall replica of the movie’s infamous “major award” is a sight to behold. As we approached, I couldn’t help but chuckle at my teenagers’ reactions – a mix of awe and secondhand embarrassment that only parents can truly appreciate.

The leg lamp isn’t just a photo op (though believe me, you’ll want plenty of pictures). It’s become a symbol of Chickasha’s quirky charm and community spirit.

Around town, you’ll find plenty of other nods to “A Christmas Story” like the yellow lamp shaded street lights downtown and leg lamps featured in area businesses like Shakespeare Wine Company.

Chickasha Festival of Light: A Dazzling Display

While Chickasha’s “Christmas Story” attractions are a year-round delight, the town truly comes alive during the annual Chickasha Festival of Light. Running from late November through December (Nov 22 – Dec 31, 2024), this spectacular event transforms Shannon Springs Park into a winter wonderland that would make even the Griswolds jealous.

My most recent visit was this September to capture fall colors and enjoy a quiet weekend away from OKC. But the holiday season is not to be missed! Make plans to walk through the park, surrounded by over 3.5 million twinkling lights, even usually-unimpressed teenagers will be wide-eyed with wonder. 

Highlights for the teen crowd include the ice skating rink (prepare for some good-natured family competition) and the carriage rides around the park. Best of all admission to the park and light viewing is free. 

Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds, and dress warmly. Oklahoma winters can be chilly, and you’ll want to take your time strolling through the displays. We found that hot chocolate from one of the local vendors was the perfect way to keep warm as we explored.

Beyond the Movie: Chickasha’s Other Charms

While “A Christmas Story” might be the main draw, Chickasha has plenty of other attractions to fill your weekend. Shannon Springs Park, home to the Festival of Light, is beautiful year-round and offers walking trails, fishing, and picnic areas.

History buffs in the family will appreciate the Grady County Historical Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the area’s past, from Native American history to the oil boom era. The museum also has the original “leg lamp” that many say inspired the movie prop. The museum’s director shared that the lamp belonged to a University of Oklahoma professor and he had it displayed in his office. 

When it comes to dining, Chickasha offers a surprising variety for a small town. We loved the Flower Shop Pizzeria for its unique atmosphere and delicious pies. If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, El Cheto’s is a great choice, and don’t forget to check out the Old Town Arcade in the back – it’s a hit with teenagers and adults alike.

For breakfast, Mama Carol’s Diner is a must-visit. It’s a local favorite, so be prepared for a bit of a wait, especially on weekends. But trust me, it’s worth it for their hearty breakfasts and friendly service.

If you’re craving a classic Oklahoma onion burger, head to J&W Grill. This no-frills joint serves up some of the best burgers in town. Alternatively, Paw Paws Hamburgers is another great option for satisfying those burger cravings.

And don’t miss the chance to enjoy the outdoor patio area between the Flower Shop and Brandi’s Bar & Grill. It’s a great spot to relax and soak in the small-town atmosphere, especially in the evening when the lights come on.

A Weekend in Chickasha: Your Itinerary

Here’s how we structured our weekend to make the most of our Chickasha adventure:

Friday Evening

• Arrive and check into Ralphie’s House
• Take a late afternoon or evening stroll downtown to visit the local boutiques, antique stores, and bookstore before seeing the Giant Leg Lamp lit up at night
• Dinner at Flower Shop Pizzeria or El Cheto’s
• After dinner, check out the Old Town Arcade in the back of El Cheto’s
• Enjoy the outdoor patio between the Flower Shop and Brandi’s Bar & Grill or watch a show at the historic Washita Theater

Saturday

• Breakfast at Mama Carol’s Diner (a local favorite that’s always busy, so be prepared for a wait)
• Explore downtown Chickasha, checking out the movie-themed storefronts and local shops
• Lunch at J&W Grill for a classic onion burger and fries, or try Paw Paws Hamburgers
• Afternoon at the Grady County Historical Museum
• Evening at the Festival of Light, including ice skating and carriage rides during the late Nov-Dec or watch head to Chief Drive-In to watch a first-run movie 
• For the adults – finish off at Shakespeare Wine Company

Sunday

• Pick up donuts from local Chickasha Donuts
• Morning walk in Shannon Springs Park
• Final photos at the Giant Leg Lamp before heading home

Alternative Sunday

If you’re considering extending your weekend getaway, why not venture a bit further south to Duncan, Oklahoma? This is what we did and loved this area. 

Here, you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich history at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, where you’ll discover the story of the iconic cattle-driving route.

Train enthusiasts and history buffs alike will appreciate the Rock Island 905 Railroad Museum, a must-visit destination.

Additionally, the Stephens County Historical Museum offers a comprehensive glimpse into the area’s past. These attractions provide a captivating blend of education and engagement, making Duncan a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.

• Pick up donuts from local Chickasha Donuts
• Tour the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center
• Walk the Duncan Heritage Trails behind the museum
• Grab lunch at Tastees Burger in Duncan
• Climb about a partially restored steam locomotive at the Rock Island 905 Railroad Museum
• Learn about the area’s history at the Stephens County Historical Museum 
• Head home

Making the Most of Your Trip

To really embrace the “Christmas Story” theme, consider packing some movie-inspired outfits. Ugly Christmas sweaters are a must, and don’t be surprised if you see a few pink bunny suits around town during the holiday season. 

For the best photo ops, the Giant Leg Lamp is obviously a must. But also check out the old-fashioned downtown storefronts, especially when they’re decked out for the holidays. The Festival of Light offers countless Instagram-worthy moments, particularly the tunnel of lights that’s perfect for that magical winter selfie.

Wrapping Up Our Chickasha Adventure

As we drove back to Oklahoma City, our car filled with souvenirs (including a miniature leg lamp for my desk), I was struck by how much fun we’d had in this little town I’d barely heard of before. Chickasha managed to strike that perfect balance of nostalgia for the parents and quirky excitement for the teens, all wrapped up in a festive bow.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of “A Christmas Story” or just looking for a unique family getaway, Chickasha offers a weekend full of memories waiting to be made. From staying in Ralphie’s world to basking in the glow of millions of Christmas lights, this small Oklahoma town proves that sometimes the best adventures are hidden in plain sight, just down the highway.

So why not triple dog dare your family to try something different this year? Chickasha is waiting to help you create your own Christmas story – leg lamp and all!

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• AIRFARE
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  • Book your plane ticket with  Expedia or Kayak
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• ROAD TRIP/CAR RENTAL
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• LODGING
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  • For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot.
• PACKING
  • Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from Away and Eagle Creek.
  • For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher.
• TRAVEL PLANNING
  • Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
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• ATTRACTIONS/ACTIVITIES
  • Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
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  • Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours.
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• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners.

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