As 2024 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to look back on the incredible events and milestones that made Edmond a vibrant and welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike. From art and music to outdoor adventures and festive gatherings, Edmond truly showcased the heart of community this year. Here are some of the highlights that made 2024 unforgettable:
VIBES: Edmond’s First Thursdays
From April through October, downtown Edmond buzzed with creativity and excitement during VIBES. This monthly event brought together local artists, entertainers, and businesses, transforming the streets into a lively hub of art, music, and community spirit. Attendees enjoyed everything from live painting and music performances to unique shopping experiences and delicious food. VIBES is pausing for 2025 and we will miss it!
Revitalized Stephenson Park
Stephenson Park, located at 5th & Boulevard, underwent an impressive renovation and reopened this year with a host of new features. The park boasts a new basketball court, a pavilion, a stage/amphitheater for performances, a water fountain, and a larger playground. Surrounded by local restaurants, shops, and the Edmond History Museum, Stephenson Park has become a central gathering place for outdoor fun and community events like the Route 66 Blue Hippo Festival.
Liberty Fest: A Celebration of American Pride
Edmond’s 52nd annual Liberty Fest once again brought together thousands of visitors and residents for two weeks of patriotic celebration. From the classic car show and rodeo to the concert in the park and Liberty Sprint, every event showcased community and American pride. The festivities culminated in a spectacular parade and a grand fireworks show.
Heard on Hurd: Monthly Street Festival
Heard on Hurd returned for an 11th year with its signature blend of food trucks, live music, and shopping, drawing thousands to downtown Edmond every third Saturday from March through October. With its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of vendors and local businesses, Heard on Hurd remained a staple for weekend fun and community connection.
UCO Bronchos and High School Football Championships
This year was monumental for the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) Bronchos football team, who won their division and advanced to the regional semi-final. UCO also played host to OSSAA high school football championships, bringing families and athletes from around Oklahoma to Edmond for 12 games over two weekends. These events not only celebrated athletic excellence but also bolstered the local economy.
Endeavor Games at UCO
• In June, UCO welcomed 258 athletes with physical disabilities from five countries for the annual Endeavor Games. This inspiring event showcased remarkable athleticism and determination, while also emphasizing inclusion and sportsmanship. The Endeavor Games have become a cornerstone of Edmond’s commitment to supporting diverse and empowering events.
• Congrats to USA Volleyball on winning their 4th gold medal at Paralympics!
Film Friendly
• The Endeavor Games documentary, “Endeavor" premiered at DeadCenter Film Festival in Oklahoma City and has been featured in six film festivals around the U.S. – next steps is to be on television. The doc follows adaptive athletes preparing for the Endeavor Games in Oklahoma.
• Rick Walker filmed the crime thriller “Masterpiece” in Downtown Edmond this year. Follow their Instagram for updates on the release date. https://www.instagram.com/masterpiecethemovie/
Miracle on 2nd St.
Edmond celebrated the holiday spirit along with eleven other cities in The Route 66 Midpoint Corridor for 100 miles of Christmas to welcome Route 66 travelers. Edmond's theme "Miracle on 2nd Street" included a full month of events including “Deck the Downtown” and Edmond Electric’s “Luminance” at Mitch Park among many others.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we reflect on the events that made 2024 special, we’re reminded of the vibrant community that makes Edmond such an extraordinary place. With each festival, park opening, and creative gathering, Edmond continues to grow as a destination for arts, sports, and the outdoors. Here’s to another year of celebration and connection in 2025!