Increasing Airbnb Bookings in Oklahoma City: A Seasonal and Event-Based Guide

Oklahoma City is a dynamic destination that offers a rich blend of sports, music, culture, and history. For Airbnb hosts and rental property owners, understanding the ebb and flow of tourism throughout the year is crucial for optimizing bookings and maximizing revenue.

This comprehensive guide delves into the best times to rent out properties in OKC, focusing on key events, weather patterns, and local attractions that draw visitors to the city.

Oklahoma City Thunder: A Basketball Mecca

The Oklahoma City Thunder is more than just a basketball team; it's a cultural phenomenon that unites the city. The Paycom Center, with a seating capacity of up to 18,203 for basketball games, is the epicenter of this excitement . The NBA season typically runs from October through April, with home games concentrated between November and March. During this period, the city experiences a surge in visitors, especially on game nights. 

Optimal Airbnb Booking Periods:

• November to March: Peak basketball season, with increased demand around home game dates.

• April: Potential playoff games can lead to higher occupancy rates.

  
  

Country Music & Concerts: A Melodic Attraction

Oklahoma's deep-rooted country music scene continues to captivate audiences. Artists like Alan Jackson are bringing their tours to OKC, with Jackson's "Last Call: One More for the Road" tour making a stop in the city during the summer of 2025 . Additionally, emerging talents such as Bailey Zimmerman are set to perform, attracting younger demographics to the area.

Optimal Airbnb Booking Periods:

• Summer (June to August): High-profile concerts and festivals increase visitor numbers.

• Specific Event Dates: Aligning bookings with concert schedules can lead to premium pricing.
  

University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University Sports: A State Tradition

The University of Oklahoma (OU) and Oklahoma State University are the cornerstone of our state's sport culture. With a strong presence in football, softball, wrestling, gymnastics, and other sports, these events draw large crowds, particularly during the football season.

Optimal Airbnb Booking Periods:

• Football Season (September to November): Home games, especially against rivals, lead to increased demand.

• Wrestling and Softball Events (January to June): Major matches can attract visitors, particularly during the Winter and Spring months.
  

Festivals & Cultural Events: Celebrating Local Heritage

OKC's vibrant cultural scene is highlighted through various festivals and events:

• DeadCenter Film Festival (June): Showcases independent films, attracting cinephiles and industry professionals.

• Oklahoma State Fair (September): A celebration of local culture, food, and entertainment.

• Red Earth Festival (June): Highlights Native American heritage through art, dance, and food.

• Christmas in the Downtown (December): Festive lights and holiday cheer make it a magical experience for families.
  

Optimal Airbnb Booking Periods:

• Spring and Summer (March to June): Festivals like DeadCenter and Red Earth draw significant crowds.

• Fall (September): The Oklahoma State Fair attracts visitors from across the region.

• Winter (December): Holiday events increase family tourism.
  

Weather Patterns: Influencing Travel Decisions

Oklahoma City's climate plays a pivotal role in tourism trends:

• Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and events.

• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid conditions with temperatures peaking around 33°C can deter some visitors, but events and festivals keep the city lively.

• Fall (September to November): Cooler temperatures and pleasant weather encourage tourism, aligning with major events like the Oklahoma State Fair.

• Winter (December to February): Cold weather and potential snow lead to fewer visitors, offering a quieter experience.
  

Optimal Airbnb Booking Periods:

• Spring and Fall: Mild weather and numerous events lead to higher occupancy rates.

• Winter: While quieter, holiday events can still attract visitors.

  
  

Monthly Breakdown: Best Times to Rent in OKC

Month	Events & Attractions	Notes
January	Winter festivals, New Year's events	Lower demand; ideal for off-season pricing
February	Valentine's Day, early spring events	Moderate demand; potential for romantic getaway bookings
March	Spring break, early festivals	Increased tourism; align with spring events
April	Thunder playoff games, spring festivals	High demand; premium pricing for event dates
May	Memorial Day weekend, outdoor activities	Moderate demand; ideal for family bookings
June	DeadCenter Film Festival, Red Earth Festival	High demand; book early for festival dates
July	Summer concerts, outdoor events	Moderate demand; capitalize on summer activities
August	Summer festivals, back-to-school events	Moderate demand; ideal for last-minute bookings
September	Oklahoma State Fair, college football season begins	High demand; book early for fair dates
October	Fall festivals, Halloween events	Moderate demand;
November	Thanksgiving; Thunder Basketball	Moderate demand; pre-planned bookings
December	Christmas; Thunder Basketball	Moderate demand; pre-planned bookings