Oklahoma City OK 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

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Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

You’ve probably experienced

Restaurants

Cheever’s Cafe

Elegant bistro offering upscale Southwestern & Southern cuisine plus cocktails & wines.

2409 N Hudson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Phone: (405) 525-7007| Web:cheeverscafe.com

Kitchen No. 324

Industrial cafe/bakery in a historic building preparing elevated comfort fare & artisanal sweets.

324 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Phone: (405) 763-5911 | Web: kitchen324.com

Paseo Grill

Romantic restaurant with a streetside patio serving gourmet American fare & fine wines.

2909 Paseo, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Phone: (405) 601-1079 | Web:paseogrill.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

The Mule

Casual, hip restaurant offering a large beer & cocktail menu plus sandwiches & more.

1630 N Blackwelder Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73106

Patrono

Restaurant serving rustic Italian cuisine & imported wines in a casually elegant atmosphere..

305 N Walker Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Cafe Kacao

Breakfast hot spot featuring a menu full of homestyle Guatemalan favorites & Latin-themed cuisine.

3325 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73118

La Brasa

Classic Peruvian dishes & craft cocktails served in historic s urrounds with a bohemian vibe & patio.

1310 NW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73106

Basil Mediterranean Cafe

Gyros, kabobs & hummus, plus organic & herbal teas, served in a casual, relaxed environment.

211 NW 23rd St, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Red PrimeSteak

Elevated steakhouse with sleek decor & private dining areas in a renovated 1911 building.

504 N Broadway Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Thai House Restaurant

Relaxed Thai restaurant featuring a selection of traditional dishes, plus a lunch buffet.

500 NW 23rd St, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Iron Star Urban Barbecue

Fine house-smoked BBQ, prime rib & gourmet comfort foods dished in an urbane spot with brick walls.

3700 N Shartel Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73118

EVENTS 2024

Mar 20 - Apr 7

King of Pangaea

A breakout hit with audiences at the National Alliance for Musical Theatre’s New Musicals Festival! After a sudden loss shatters his world apart, 21-yearold Christopher Crow travels back to the imaginary island of his childhood in hopes of finding answers that will bring the pieces back together. Details at plazadistrict.org.

MAR 22

Red Earth Festival

Red Earth’s signature event features Native American artists and dancers from throughout North America. Festival guests will experience the artistic creations of some of America’s most celebrated Native artists as they offer their creations for sale. Liichokoshkomo’, the Museum’s interactive outdoor venue, showcases the diversity of the West with inter-tribal native dwellings serving as a backdrop for hands-on arts and craft stations, artist demonstrations, live music and special presentations of tribal dance throughout the weekend. Learn more at myriadgardens.org.

MAR 30

Tulip Festival

Ring in spring while admiring over 50,000 tulips and enjoying an array of family friendly activities, food trucks, regional merchants and live music spread throughout the Myriad Gardens. There’s no better backdrop for photos in OKC this spring than the lively tulip blossoms and vibrant art displays. The Tulip Festival stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant culture, combining nature’s beauty with a tapestry of engaging experiences, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Learn more at visitokc.com.

APR 25

Festival of the Arts

The Festival of the Arts is a community celebration of the visual, performing and culinary arts, bringing a variety of talented artists together in

EVENTS 2024

downtown OKC’s Bicentennial Park. An OKC tradition since 1967, the Festival of the Arts is considered a rite of spring and a signature event for the Arts Council, with an average of 750,000 attendees. Learn more at visitokc.com.

MAY 25

Paseo Arts Festival

The Paseo Arts Festival features more than 100 nationally acclaimed visual artists, 50 musicians and 20 food and drink vendors, and the district’s restaurants, galleries and other businesses will also be open during festival hours. Learn more at visitokc.com.

MAY 31

Pride On 39th Street

OKC Pride has been the official management team of Oklahoma City’s annual Pride event since 1988, establishing itself as the not-for-profit organization OKC Pride, Inc in 2004. OKC Pride, Inc continues to organize Oklahoma City’s annual Pride week and has developed it to be the largest privately held event in Oklahoma. It has become a regional Pride destination for tens of thousands from across Oklahoma and surrounding states. Learn more at prideon39th.com.

JUN 6

deadCenter Film Festival

The deadCenter Film Festival is Oklahoma’s largest film festival and one of the “Top 20 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” and “Top 50 Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” according to MovieMaker Magazine. It’s a great chance to see exciting new short films, insightful documentaries, hilarious comedies, scary monster movies and the best independent films from around the world and all over Oklahoma. Plus, you might just see a movie star or two. Learn more at dcff.eventive.org.

JUN 14

PRIDE! On The Plaza

LIVE! on the Plaza is the Plaza District’s free & monthly block party

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost. Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

featuring art shows, live entertainment, great food and local shopping. Join us as we celebrate one of Oklahoma City’s best monthly festivals! This month is in celebration of Pride month! Learn more at plazadistrict.org.

JUN 28

Oklahoma PrideFest

We continue to build on the vision of an annual PrideFest with something for everyone, in our city’s front yard — Scissortail Park. PrideFest is a monumental event to have in Downtown OKC, as it signifies a new generation of activism and visibility in Oklahoma. Come celebrate with us for our 4th annual festival from June 28-30 in Downtown Oklahoma City. Learn more at okpridealliance.org.

JUL 3

Red, White & Boom

Hear your favorite patriotic tunes at the Oklahoma City Philharmonic’s outdoor concert at Scissortail Park on July 3. Red, White & Boom is FREE to attend, and visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and a picnic to enjoy during the performance. Learn more at visitokc.com.

AUG 17

2024 OKC Whiskey Fest

The 2024 OKC Whiskey Fest is an upscale tasting event featuring a wide assortment of whiskey, bourbon, Scotch, and other fine spirits. This event will gather whiskey enthusiasts and 50+ of the most fascinating distilled spirits. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

SEP 12

Oklahoma State Fair

The Oklahoma State Fair is a must-do (and must-eat) event. From family entertainment, horse shows and educational exhibits to all the delicious fried treats in between, enjoy this “best of the best” showcase of our state’s agriculture, manufacturing and commerce at the OKC Fairgrounds. Visit okstatefair.com.

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~

In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~

Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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EVENTS 2024

SEP 28

Fiestas de las Americas

Fiestas de las Americas is the largest Latino festival in Oklahoma City. The event kicks off with the Parade of the Americas and offers a full day of family friendly activities, live entertainment, art and pop-up markets in the Historic Capitol Hill. Since its inception in 2006, the Festival and Parade has been an annual event, scheduled in the middle of Hispanic Heritage Month. Each year attendance and reach continue to grow along with additional experiences. Learn more at visitokc.com.

OCT 4

Oklahoma Regatta Festival

The Oklahoma Regatta Festival returns to the Oklahoma River on October 4 – 6, 2024 for it’s 20th Anniversary. The family friendly festival features competitive rowing, kayaking, dragon boat and whitewater raft racing and much more. Learn more at riversportokc.org.

OCT 19

Fright Fest

This Halloween season, experience fun by day and fright by night at Frontier City, Oklahoma’s only theme park, during its annual Fright Fest celebration. Get ready for the best Halloween event of the season, featuring family friendly shows and attractions during the day and thrilling rides and scary haunted houses at night. Word to the wise; this event is only recommended for guests 13 and over. Learn more at visitokc.com.

NOV TBD

Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival

The “Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival” is an annual family-friendly event. The event features the tree lighting, roaming characters, face painting, a coffee truck, free samples from Bricktown businesses, pictures with Santa and serves as the official kick-off for Downtown in December. Learn more at visitokc.com.

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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

DIVERSITY CENTER OF OKLAHOMA INC.

Providing Quality Services to Oklahoma’s Gender Diverse & LGBTQ Communities. Our mission is to reduce barriers in the Gender Diverse & LGBTQ+ communities and their families, including disenfranchised and marginalized people of color by providing quality primary health care treatment, and behavioral health treatment, along with additional complimentary health care services.

DIVERSITYCENTEROFOKLAHOMA.ORG | 405.604.5217

FREEDOM OKLAHOMA

Freedom Oklahoma advocates and organizes across Oklahoma and within the 39 sovereign tribal nations that call this land home to build a future where all Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and fuller spectrum of people whose sexuality or gender or romantic identity exists beyond a heteronormative, binary framework (2SLGBTQ+), have the safety to thrive.

FREEDOMOKLAHOMA.ORG | 405.446.8836

EQUALITY HEALTH GROUP

Our mission is to provide the people of Oklahoma with the best possible healthcare to prevent and treat HIV, STI’s, and Hepatitis, and strive for no new HIV infections throughout the state.

EHG.HEALTH | 405.761.2762

PFLAG OKLAHOMA CITY

PFLAG Oklahoma City is OKC’s local chapter of PFLAG national, the nation’s largest family and ally organization. Since its founding in 1973, it has evolved to include all members of the LGBTQ+ community, families and allies.

PFLAGOKLAHOMACITY.ORG | 405.593.8868

EVENTS 2024-25

NOV TBD

Oklahoma City Zoo Safari Lights

Go wild and fill your holiday season with the magic of light. The OKC Zoo’s Safari Lights features a larger-than-life light display showcasing large wildlife-themed light sculptures viewable on a driving tour through the zoo. Feel the holiday cheer with animated light displays, festive treats, kids activities and themed photo opportunities. Learn more at okczoo.org.

DEC TBD

Saints Santa Run

Take a festive walk or run through the streets of downtown Oklahoma City at the annual Saints Santa Run. This event, part of Downtown in December, includes a 5K race, a one-mile fun run and a free Santa Claus Kids’ Dash. Runners will enjoy live music, face painting, a photo booth, a build-your-own-trail-mix bar and more. Don’t forget to wear your most festive attire to claim a prize at the costume contest following the races. Learn more at downtownindecember.com.

JAN TBD

Devon Ice Rink

Lace up your skates and feel the exhilaration as you twirl, spin, and glide across the glistening ice. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this ice-skating haven offers endless fun for all ages and skill levels. Learn more at myriadgardens.org.

FEB TBD

An Affair of the Heart

An Affair of the Heart in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is a vibrant and engaging event that captures the spirit of the community. The event showcases a diverse array of handmade arts and crafts, offering visitors a unique shopping experience with an abundance of one-of-a-kind treasures. Attendees can explore a vast marketplace filled with talented artisans and crafters, each presenting their skillfully crafted wares. Learn more at aaoth.com.