OKC Parks marks 50th anniversary of Will Rogers Senior Center

Published on October 30, 2025

OKC Parks will mark the 50th anniversary of Oklahoma City’s first senior center with a celebration Nov. 4.

The Will Rogers Senior Center 50th Anniversary Celebration will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, at the center, 3501 Pat Murphy Dr. This free event will include music, activities and refreshments.

The celebration is planned for Nov. 4 in honor of the birthday of Will Rogers, the legendary humorist and cowboy known as Oklahoma's Favorite Son.

The event is open to the public, and current and former center visitors are especially encouraged to attend. Performances include the Will Rogers Senior Center Garage Band and the Will Rogers Senior Center Square Dancers. OKC Parks Director Melinda McMillan-Miller will also speak. Light refreshments will be served, and the event is free.

“This golden anniversary is not just a celebration of our longevity but a tribute to the people who made it possible,” McMillan-Miller said. “We are so grateful to all the loyal seniors, our dedicated employees and the supportive community. We look forward to the next 50 years!”

The Will Rogers Senior Center is a hub of activity for Oklahoma City seniors interested in arts, fitness and social activities. It was the first recreation center in Oklahoma City designed specifically for seniors. Construction began at the end of 1974, and the center opened with programming in 1975.

About Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation
Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation operates more than 170 parks, 100 miles of trails, 5,000 acres of public land and a network of recreation, aquatic, athletic and senior centers. The mission of OKC Parks is to provide cultural, social and recreational experiences that give our community the opportunity to cultivate wellness and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

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Media Contact:
Carrie Coppernoll Jacobs
Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation
(405) 203-4258
carrie.jacobs@okc.gov