If your calendar has been looking a little lonely, don’t worry—Ponca City is here to fill it faster than an HTeaO order at happy hour. This week’s lineup has it all: magical trivia, farm-fresh ribbon cuttings, Easter eggs in July (because why not), and your last chance to see The Little Mermaid swim across the Poncan stage. Whether you’re a social butterfly, a live music junkie, or just someone who shows up for the snacks, there’s something on this list with your name on it (probably written in glitter gel pen). Let’s dive into the good stuff, shall we?

Friday, July 18

Laundry LOVE - 1–4 PM @ Spin City Laundromat, 612 N 1st St
It’s like Oprah but for socks: “YOU get clean clothes, and YOU get clean clothes!” Free laundry, detergent, and dryer use for up to three loads per household—sponsored by the Ponca City Foursquare Church. Show up early before the 50-load limit disappears faster than your favorite hoodie in a shared dryer.

World of Wizardry Trivia - 7–10 PM @ Vortex Alley Brewing, 220 E Central Ave
Calling all wizards, witches, and clever Muggles! Quizmaster FranniGrace (yes, she’s real and ready to cast trivia spells 📜✨) is teaming up with Vortex Alley Brewing to bring you a magical trivia night. Round up your squad, brush up on spells and potions, and prepare for a potion‑mix of questions that'll test your wizarding knowledge. With reserved seating and sweet rewards for top teams, this is one enchanting evening you won’t want to miss. Doors open at 7 PM—arrive early, grab a crafty brew or two, and let the trivia magic begin!

LAST CHANCE! See the Little Mermaid on Stage! Friday & Saturday, July 18–19 @ 7:30 PM • Sunday, July 20 @ 2:30 PM📍 Poncan Theatre, 104 E Grand Ave

Merfolk, landlubbers, and nostalgic adults—this is your last chance to dive into Ariel’s world at the Poncan Theatre! Presented by Evans Children’s Academy in their Mainstage+ series, this eel-escalating musical sea-icle features pint-sized performers, sparkly fin-ery, a sea witch with major attitude, and crustaceans that steal the show. It’s charming, chaotic, and sprinkled with nostalgia—plus it's your final opportunity before the curtains close on July 20. Tickets are cheaper online, so don’t let your chance swim away!

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Hey Ponca pals! It’s another week of sunburns and surprises. Whether you're into lip-syncing mermaids or helping out little furry friends, we’ve got your calendar covered.

Wednesday, July 9

Virtual Studio Sweat (aka Spin Class) – 5:30 PM @ RecPlex
Nothing says “sip margaritas guilt-free” like pretending to cycle uphill—indoors. Virtual instructor included so you can blame your sweat on Wi‑Fi lag.

Friday, July 11

The Little Mermaid – 7:30 PM @ Poncan Theatre
Dive headfirst into a splashy sea adventure as the Evans Children’s Academy brings The Little Mermaid to life on the historic Poncan Theatre stage—and trust us, this isn’t your average fish tale. With glittering costumes, pint-sized performers belting their hearts out, and just enough stage fog to make you question if you’re actually underwater, this production has everything: sass, scales, and some truly scene-stealing crustaceans. Ariel is on a mission to trade her fins for feet (teenagers, right?), Ursula is serving up villainy with flair, and Prince Eric is just trying to avoid being kissed by a seagull. It’s charming, chaotic, and heartwarming in the best small-town-theatre way. Perfect for kids, nostalgic adults, and anyone who enjoys a good “Part of Your World” singalong. Catch it Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM or Sundays at 2:30 PM, July 11–13 and July 18–20. Tickets are cheaper online, so be a smart human (or merperson) and grab yours early.

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Happy Birthday, America! 🎆 And nothing says “land of the free” quite like lawn chairs, pancakes by the runway, and debating whether that tomato is “heirloom” or just weird. Whether you want to kayak at sunrise like a nature influencer or just stand next to a vintage Mustang while sipping gas station coffee and pretending it's artisanal, Ponca City's got you covered this week.

So slap on your sunscreen, fill your cooler with responsible beverages, and get ready for a week full of sparkles, bacon, and awkward small talk at the Farmers Market. Let’s do this, Ponca.

🇺🇸 Friday, July 4

Summer Concert Series @ Lake Ponca Park
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
It’s like Coachella… if Coachella had lawn chairs, fewer influencers, and a strong chance of someone grilling hot dogs nearby. Local bands will rock the lake while you soak up the sun and pretend your cooler is a VIP lounge. BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket… or Beverage… we’re not judging).

4th of July Fireworks @ Lake Ponca Park
9:30 PM – 10:30 PM
The sky is about to go full Michael Bay, minus the budget and explosions of questionable plot value. Tune into KPNC or KLOR for a perfectly timed soundtrack as the night sky does its sparkly thing. Be sure to come early to grab your perfect viewing spot!

The classic fireworks show lights up the sky at 9:50 PM, choreographed to KPNC 100.7 FM or KLOR 99.3 FM. Boat lovers, note: buoys block the launch area after 7 PM—stay safe and enjoy!

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This week in Ponca City, we’ve got fried fish, flying discs, fresh veggies, live music, ribbon cuttings, and at least one person definitely pulling a hammy in a line dance contest. Whether you’re chasing cornhole glory at Juneteenth or just here for the vibes at the night market, one thing’s clear: Ponca is popping off harder than a Fourth of July firecracker (and it’s not even July yet).

Grab your sunscreen, your reusable tote, and a friend who always knows where to park downtown — we’re diving into a week so full of events, you’ll need a calendar and a clone.

🎉 Juneteenth Community Celebration - All Weekend

🗓️ June 19–21 @ Attucks Community Center & Park

Three days. Zero excuses. Ponca City's Juneteenth celebration is back with everything from hot dogs and face paint to line dancing and cornhole battles. Thursday kicks off with free food, DJ Ricky Robinson, and kid-friendly fun. Friday cranks up the music with a line dance contest (cash prizes = more motivation) and DJ Kevin Brown spinning beats till the snack stand shuts down. Saturday is an all-day bash with bounce houses, bingo, scavenger hunts, and that sweet summertime combo: free lunch and music in the park.

✨ Come for the culture, stay for the crafts — and maybe dominate that 3-point shootout while you're at it.

Friday, June 20

🎣 11th Annual Fish Fry for the Small Fry
6:00 PM @ Dearing House Child Advocacy Center
Fried fish, live music, kiddos eating free—this one’s more feel‑good than food coma. Vote for your fave fry team, support a great cause, and maybe hit the dunk tank? Tasting kits are $10, and all proceeds help abused children

✂️ Petsense Ribbon‑Cutting at Tractor Supply 2129 N. 14th St.
Got a pet or know someone who does? Swing by to celebrate Petsense’s grand opening, snag some free snacks or swag, and meet fellow animal lovers before your next trip down the pet aisle.

🎶 Live Music & More @ Grand Cigar Lounge If your idea of a good time includes smooth cigars, craft cocktails, and toe-tapping tunes until midnight—Grand Cigar Lounge is your vibe. They’re packing June with live music, karaoke, and even a sip-and-paint night for the artistically adventurous.

Upcoming Live Music at the Cigar Lounge:

• 🎤 June 20 (7PM–12AM) – Live Music: Tim Durham brings the good-time vibes

• 🎶 June 21 (7PM–12AM) – Karaoke Night with Mike Redding (grab the mic and your moment)

• 🎨 June 24 (5PM–9PM) – Holiday Paint & Sip with Taylor Welborn—paint something festive while sipping something fancy

Whether you’re crooning Sinatra or chilling to local sounds, there’s no better way to unwind after a long day of Ponca-ing.

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Well polish your boots and fluff your fringe—Ponca City is about to go full western this weekend, and you're definitely invited. Whether you're here for the parading ponies or just looking for an excuse to shop with a little sass, we’ve got something for every kind of cowpoke.

Friday, June 13

101 Wild West Rodeo - Thursday, Friday & Saturday
Saddle up, buttercup—it’s rodeo season! This is the event where boots get dusty, belt buckles get flashy, and someone’s uncle ends up in the mutton bustin’ signup line (again). Bull riding, bronc bustin’, and a reminder that Ponca City knows how to party Western-style. Yee - and I cannot stress this enough - haw!!!
www.101wildwestrodeo.com

🎭 Seussical Kids Poncan Theatre – Friday & Saturday @7:30 PM, plus an encore Sunday, June 15 at 2:30 PM 🎟️ Tickets www.poncantheatre.org
Evans Children’s Academy of Performing Arts are fresh from their summer camp and ready to flood the stage with energy, rhymes, and questionable disguises (truffula trees, anyone?)

🎶 Live Music: Larry Newsom at the Grand Cigar Lounge @7:00 PM - The Grand Cigar Lounge
Ready to unwind? Join us for a laid-back night of live music with the smooth sounds of Larry Newsom, local legend and connoisseur of acoustic vibes. Whether you’re in the mood for blues, folk, or just a strong pour and good company, this is the place to be.

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June in Ponca City is heating up faster than a tailgate in August, and we've got a roundup of events that’ll make you want to dust off your boots, grab a reusable shopping bag, and maybe even break into spontaneous line dancing. Whether you're here for the cars, the herbs, the fishing, or the free movies (bless those AC-filled theaters), this week’s lineup is packed with summer vibes, small-town charm, and just enough weirdness to keep it interesting.

Let’s giddy-up into what’s happening…

🎸 Friday, June 6

Cruzin’ Grand
🕕 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📍 Downtown Ponca City (Grand Ave)
Start your engines and your slow rolls, folks—it’s Ponca’s unofficial parade of horsepower, hubcaps, and high school reunions on wheels. Whether you’re driving a freshly waxed classic car or an older minivan (technically a classic car is any vehicle that is 20 years old and has been kept in its original condition or restored to its original specifications, sooooo…..) whip out your hotrod with questionable air conditioning, you belong here. Pro tip: Lawn chairs are essential, and waving at strangers is mandatory. Bonus points if your outfit matches your ride.

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Summer is heating up, and so is Ponca City! Whether you're into herbs, movies, or just hanging out, we've got something for everyone this week. Let's dive in!

🎬 Free Summer Movie at the Poncan Theatre

Tuesdays in May, June, July & August
Showtimes: 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM
Location: Poncan Theatre, 104 E. Grand Ave., Ponca City, OK

Beat the heat and enjoy a free movie in the historic Poncan Theatre! As part of their 2025 Free Summer Movie lineup, the theatre offers complimentary screenings every Tuesday at 10 AM and 2 PM. It's a perfect outing for families, friends, or anyone looking to relax and enjoy a film in a classic setting.

Note: Children 15 years of age or younger must be accompanied by someone who is at least 16 years old. Guardians can authorize another person aged 16 or older to accompany their children by submitting a form. Submit Permission Form to Attend!

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Ponca City is packed with ways to kick off summer this week—from ghostly sword fights at the Playhouse to lakeside jams and a golf tournament with heart. Whether you're in it for the music, the drama, or just the snacks, there's no excuse to stay home.

Friday, May 23

30th Annual Hospice Memorial Golf Tournament, Friday, May 23, 2025 – 8:00 AM
📍 Wentz Memorial Golf Course, 2928 L.A. Cann Drive, Ponca City, OK

Get ready to Par-Tee for a cause! Join us at the 30th Annual Hospice Memorial Golf Tournament, where your questionable golf skills can contribute to a noble cause. This event benefits the Hospice of North Central Oklahoma, ensuring that every swing, slice, and mulligan supports compassionate end-of-life care in our community.

🎭 I Hate Hamlet (Multiple Showtimes)
7:30 PM May 23–25 & 2:00 PM May 26 @ Ponca Playhouse

A young TV actor moves to New York, rents an apartment once owned by John Barrymore, and is suddenly haunted—literally—by the ghost of the legendary Shakespearean actor himself. Cue the sword fights, ghostly pep talks, and a lot of shouting about tights.

This fast-paced comedy is part supernatural sitcom, part Shakespeare roast, and all-around theatrical chaos. Perfect for anyone who’s ever been forced to read Hamlet and thought, “You know what? I hate Hamlet too.”

Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for students and seniors. Reserve your seat at poncaplayhouse.com or roll the dice and try your luck at the door. Ghost sightings not guaranteed.

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Ponca City is buzzing this week with a vibrant mix of cultural performances and community celebrations. Whether you're in the mood for live music or a theatrical experience, there's something for everyone.

🎸 Friday, May 16

American Portraits – A Living History Performance, 7:00 PM @ Poncan Theatre
Experience a musical journey through American history with performances spanning classical masterworks, jazz, rock, pop, spirituals, and show tunes. This concert offers a rich tapestry of the nation's cultural heritage.

Band #9 Live Performance, 8:00 PM @ The Grand Cigar & Lounge
Enjoy an evening of live music with Band #9 at The Grand Cigar & Lounge. Relax with a cigar and your favorite drink while soaking in the tunes.

Ponca City High School Graduation – Class of 2025, 8:00 PM @ Sullins Stadium
Caps will fly, tears may be shed, and someone’s grandma will definitely yell “That’s my baby!” Celebrate the PoHi Class of 2025 as they cross the stage and into the future. Bring tissues, a camera, and all your loudest cheers—this is their moment.

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Look alive, Ponca City—

This week’s calendar is stacked like a mimosa bar on Mother’s Day. From a new Marvel movie at the Poncan to alt-rock at the brewery, a springtime MAE Fest, and a brunch that would make Julia Child weep with joy, it’s safe to say we’re firing on all cultural cylinders. Whether you’re chasing live music, local produce, or just a cinnamon roll named Gary, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive in.

🎸 Friday, May 9

4th Annual MAE Fest, 9:00–2:00 PM @ Ponca City RecPlex
MAE Fest (that’s Minds, Arts, and Education) is back for its fourth year and bigger than ever! This free, family-friendly event celebrates creativity and learning with live performances, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities for kids of all ages.

Thunderbolts (Movie Showing) Friday - Sunday (Times Vary) @ The Poncan Theatre
Marvel’s misfit anti-heroes are teaming up in Thunderbolts—and they’re not here to play nice. Catch the latest action-packed installment of the MCU on the big screen at the historic Poncan Theatre. Super-powers, moral dilemmas, and plenty of explosions await.

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Ponca, brace yourself. May 3 is coming in hotter than a fresh funnel cake.

We don’t mean to be dramatic, but this Saturday might actually be the busiest day in local history. Pancakes will fly, cars will shine, jazz will float through the air, and by the end of it all, someone will probably be slightly sunburned and covered in powdered color. There’s croquet. There’s comic books. There’s a guy somewhere yelling “Action!” at a short film screening. And somehow, all of this is happening before Monday even rolls around.

So stretch, hydrate, and cancel any vague, “I might do laundry” plans — because Ponca City is popping off this week. Let’s get into it.

FEATURED UPCOMING EVENTS:

6th Annual Schatte Memorial Cookoff
11:30 AM–1:00 PM @ First Lutheran Church – Saturday, May 3
Grab a free tasting kit, sample some serious smoked goodness, and help crown Ponca’s BBQ royalty. It’s meat, competition, and community — basically a small-town holy trinity. Come hungry and leave full of brisket and good vibes.

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You made it to the end of April. Barely.

We don’t know how we got here either — one minute it was spring break, the next minute someone’s talking about graduation gowns and teacher gifts. But hey, we made it.

The good news? Ponca has a full lineup of live music, cookoffs, crawfish, and culture to help us cruise into May with confidence (or at least caffeine). Soak it in now, because in about five minutes, the kids are going to be out of school and asking for snacks every 30 seconds. This is your calm-before-the-summer-storm survival guide.

Let’s get into it.

FEATURED UPCOMING EVENTS:

6th Annual Schatte Memorial Cookoff
11:30 AM–1:00 PM @ First Lutheran Church – Saturday, May 3
BBQ. Games. Free tasting kits. Need we say more? Just show up, eat like a champion, and cast your vote for the best barbecue in town. Bonus: calories don’t count when it’s for a good cause.
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Time to uncrumple your calendar, Ponca.
This week is stacking up to be a whirlwind of exotic foods, two-wheeled high-speed adventure, and nature-themed drama. Whether you’re out on the town or just here for the herbaceous vibes, we’ve got your game plan — minus the decision fatigue.

FEATURED UPCOMING EVENTS:

6th Annual Schatte Memorial Cookoff
11:30 AM–1:00 PM @ First Lutheran Church – Friday, May 3
BBQ. Games. Free tasting kits. Need we say more? Just show up, eat like a champion, and cast your vote for the best barbecue in town. Bonus: calories don’t count when it’s for a good cause.

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It’s officially “Should I wear a jacket or shorts?” season. Let’s celebrate.
Between dinosaurs, carnivals, and live music, Ponca is doing the most — and we are absolutely here for it. Take this newsletter as your permission slip to skip chores and go be a local legend.

Friday, April 11

Bealls Grand Opening (Yes, It’s Pronounced “Bells”)
9:00 AM @ 2900 N 14th St – Friday–Sunday, April 11–13
Ponca City, meet your newest shopping obsession. Bealls is officially open — and they’re kicking things off with giveaways all weekend long! Show up early, grab a deal, and gently correct anyone calling it “Beeeells.” It’s Bells, y’all.

Meal to Heal – Hospice of North Central Oklahoma, 6:00 PM @ Carolyn Renfro Event Center
Enjoy a delicious dinner while supporting a seriously good cause. This one feeds your soul and your appetite — double win.
Buy Tickets

WEEE Entertainment Carnival - Final Week
6:00 PM–Late @ 101 Rodeo Grounds (Ash & Prospect) – April 9–13
It’s cotton candy, flashing lights, and mild whiplash season, folks! The carnival is back with rides, games, and wristbands for unlimited fun ($33 from 6–10 PM). Not into commitment? Single tickets start at $4 each — but beware of the Freak Out, which demands two tickets and possibly your dignity. Bring your kids, your wallet, and your inner thrill-seeker.

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Welcome to the chaos (the fun kind).
It's officially spring(ish), and Ponca City is waking up like a bear out of hibernation — hungry for events, music, rodeos, and reasons to get out of the house. Here’s your weekly cheat sheet so you don’t miss a thing.

Friday, April 4

Tracy Lawrence @ 7 Clans First Council Casino – 8:00 PM
Yes, that Tracy Lawrence. Yes, “Paint Me a Birmingham” is still a banger. No, you do not want to miss this.
Get Tickets Here

Saturday, April 5

Ponca City Fly-In Breakfast, 7:00–10:00 AM @ Ponca City Regional Airport
Pancakes, planes, and pilots — it’s basically “Top Gun” meets Cracker Barrel. Bring the kids, the grandkids, and your camera.

Ponca City Passport Kickoff — Fly-In Edition @ Ponca City Regional Airport
Start your Ponca City Passport adventure where the pancakes are hot and the planes are cooler than your ex. Grab your passport, get your first stamp, and set your sights on exploring all things Ponca. Bragging rights (and some prizes) included. This project is brought to you by this year’s Ponca City Leadership Class.

Cars & Coffee, 8:00 AM @ Ponca City Regional Airport
Shiny chrome, strong coffee, and an unofficial competition for best midlife crisis vehicle. Come hang.

Ponca City Seed Swap, 2:00 – 6:00 pm @ City Central Building, 400 E. Central Ave.
Have seeds? Need seeds? Want to pretend you know what to do with seeds? This is your moment. Cost is $5, kids 12 and under are free with adult admission.

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Hi friends,

We’ve got big news — starting this week, we’re bringing you a brand new weekly EVENTS-focused newsletter called What the Heck is Happening in Ponca?! 🎉

Every Wednesday morning, we’ll send you a quick, witty roundup of all the fun stuff happening around town — concerts, community events, food truck rallies, rodeos, farmer’s markets, and the occasional gospel brunch (we see you, church ladies). This newsletter is included in your PCM+ membership. Free subscribers will see featured events only, but for the full rundown — the good, the weird, and the "wait, that's real?" — you'll need to upgrade.

Think of it like getting the chips and the queso. You could stop at chips… but why would you?

No more scrolling endless Facebook posts or saying, “Wait… that was last weekend?!”
We’ve got you covered.

DISCLAIMER: Honestly, this might be a terrible idea. We’re not totally sure. It seemed like a fun idea in a caffeine-fueled brainstorming session, but now we’re out here actually doing it and wondering, “Wait… what if no one reads it?” Maybe it flops. Maybe it becomes a local sensation. Maybe your aunt prints out this email every weekend and puts it on her fridge next to a Garfield magnet — who knows? But hey, we’re giving it a shot. Worst-case scenario: we wasted some time and made ourselves giggle. Best-case scenario: you love it, and we all get really good at knowing what the heck is happening in Ponca.

What to expect:

✔️ Hand-picked events happening in Ponca City each week
✔️ Delivered straight to your email inbox every Wednesday morning
✔️ Written with personality — because bland is blah
✔️ A few jokes, some sass, and a whole lot of hometown love

👀 First issue drops this Wednesday (ahem, tomorrow!) — don’t miss it!
And if you’re hosting something cool, you can submit your event to be listed for FREE, OR get it listed at the top as a Featured Event with a Promo image for only $150…...because good vibes won’t pay the electric bill.

Thanks for supporting local, showing up, and staying connected.
Let’s make sure everyone knows what the heck is happening around here.

—
Ponca City Monthly Crew
Local events. Served hot and fresh, every week.

NOTE: The “What the Heck is Happening in Ponca?!!” newsletter is delivered to all paid subscribers by default; those who wish to NOT receive the new weekly events newsletter via email must go into their account settings and indicate that they do not want to receive event emails.

You can view our “What the Heck is Happening in Ponca?!!” page anytime on our website here: https://www.poncacitymonthly.com/s/what-the-hecks-happening-ponca

➡️ If you would like to opt out of Weekly Event Email notifications, You can do that here. Simply toggle the “What the Heck’s Happening in Ponca?!!” newsletter to the left so that it is grayed out. You can return to your account page at any time to disable or enable all email notifications.