Who says you have to wait until December to hear Christmas music? Martha's Task is bringing the holidays to Bartlesville with its annual Christmas in July event, running July 21-22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and July 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 718 S. Johnstone Avenue. Visitors can escape the Oklahoma summer heat and step into a festive winter wonderland complete with holiday decorations, a glowing Christmas tree, seasonal treats, and plenty of unique gifts and handcrafted items.

More than just a fun shopping event, Christmas in July helps support the mission of Martha's Task, a nonprofit that has spent more than 26 years empowering low-income women through paid sewing and craft training. Seamstresses keep 100 percent of the profits from the items they create and sell, while the organization's emergency assistance program provides immediate income for women facing urgent financial needs. So, if you're ready to trade triple-digit temperatures for a little Christmas cheer, this is one place where it's perfectly acceptable to say "Merry Christmas" in July, and nobody will give you a funny look. For more information, visit Martha's Task online or call 918-336-8275.