"Christmas controversy: Okmulgee Chamber debuts new Christmas Village!"

Trivia Question❓

Okmulgee, Oklahoma is home to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Headquarters. What is the traditional name for the Muscogee (Creek) people?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

OSU Okmulgee unveils new IT Innovations Lab

Okmulgee Chamber and Main Street Launch Inaugural Christmas Village in Downtown Okmulgee.

The Okmulgee Chamber and Okmulgee Main Street have collaborated to create the first annual Christmas Village in downtown Okmulgee, inspired by successful Christmas events in other Oklahoma towns.

The village features hand-built Christmas cottages by students and offers daily special events, including a Christmas parade and Giving Sunday.

The community came together to bring the village to life, promoting unity and local support.

The goal is to provide a festive area for holiday shopping and celebrations.

The organizers hope the Christmas Village will become a beloved annual tradition like the Christmas parade.

Check out the full events schedule on the Okmulgee Chamber of Commerce's Facebook page.

The Last Stop Christmas Shoppe Craft Fair returns to Okmulgee on Saturday, December 6, 2025, offering a festive kick-off to the holiday season.

Hosted by the Okmulgee First United Methodist Church at the Rowe Family Life Center on West 8th Street, the event is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors can browse an exciting selection of handmade gifts, sweet treats, jewelry, home décor, plants, and more from over twenty local vendors.

Homemade soups, desserts, and beverages will be available for takeout, adding to the cozy holiday atmosphere.

Event coordinator Kay Rabbitt-Brower encourages the whole community to attend and explore one-of-a-kind items that make memorable gifts.

Those interested in vendor spaces should apply by November 28 for a chance to showcase their crafts and connect with holiday shoppers.

Don’t miss this beloved Okmulgee tradition filled with holiday spirit and local flair.

This newsletter sponsored by

Boom-A-Rang Diner

Boom-A-Rang Diner is a beloved spot in Okmulgee, serving up classic American fare with a nostalgic, 50s-style charm that feels like coming home.

Known for their delicious burgers and all-day breakfast, it's a place where neighbors can gather for a satisfying meal in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're craving a stack of pancakes for dinner or a perfectly cooked cheeseburger for lunch, their menu has something for the whole family. This spotlight is presented by Boom-A-Rang Diner. As a dedicated Oklahoma-based restaurant, they are proud to be a part of our local community. For a taste of timeless comfort food, you can check out their menu and stop by for a visit!

Haygood-Shephard American Legion Post 103 Honored with Historic Recognition

The Haygood-Shephard American Legion Post 103 in Okmulgee has been added to the National Register of Historic Places, honoring its remarkable legacy and cultural significance.

Located at 800 N. Wilson St., the post pays tribute to Henry Arthur Haygood and Allen B. Shephard, local heroes and the first Black servicemen from Okmulgee to fall in World War I and II.

Haygood, remembered for his education and service with the Buffalo Division, was killed in 1918, while Shephard died in 1942 after being injured in the 578th Quartermaster Truck Company.

Established in 1960, Post 103 became a cornerstone for Black veterans and one of the area’s last segregated social clubs, fostering unity and civic service.

The post’s recognition reflects Okmulgee’s ongoing commitment to celebrating its rich heritage and honoring the sacrifices of its community.